In basic nuclear chemistry, nucleons are defined as which combination of subatomic particles present inside the atomic nucleus?

Introduction / Context:
In nuclear chemistry and atomic physics, it is important to distinguish between the different types of subatomic particles that make up atoms. The term nucleons is used frequently when discussing nuclear reactions, mass numbers, and binding energy. This question asks you to recall which specific particles are counted as nucleons and therefore reside in the atomic nucleus, as opposed to orbiting around it.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Subatomic particles considered: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
• The term to be defined is nucleons.
• We focus on the structure of the atomic nucleus.
• Standard atomic models place electrons outside the nucleus in various energy levels.

Concept / Approach:
An atom consists of a central nucleus surrounded by electrons. The nucleus contains protons, which are positively charged, and neutrons, which are neutral. Both protons and neutrons are collectively referred to as nucleons because they are the constituents of the nucleus. Electrons, being much lighter and negatively charged, are not included in the term nucleons because they occupy space outside the nucleus. Therefore, nucleons are defined as the combination of protons and neutrons only.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that the atomic nucleus is made up of protons and neutrons. Step 2: Remember that electrons move in regions around the nucleus and are not part of the nucleus itself. Step 3: Recognise that the term nucleons is used to describe particles located in the nucleus. Step 4: Combine this information to define nucleons as protons and neutrons together. Step 5: Choose the option that lists protons and neutrons and exclude any option that includes electrons.

Verification / Alternative check:
In nuclear notation, the mass number A of an atom is defined as the total number of nucleons, meaning the sum of protons and neutrons. Electrons are not counted in the mass number because their mass is negligible compared to that of nucleons. Additionally, nuclear reactions and binding energy discussions focus on the interactions between protons and neutrons inside the nucleus, reinforcing the idea that these two particles are collectively known as nucleons. This usage across textbooks confirms the definition.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Neutrons and electrons together do not define nucleons because electrons are not located in the nucleus. Protons and electrons together simply represent charged particles of opposite sign and again do not match the definition. Including all three particles, protons, neutrons, and electrons, as nucleons is incorrect because electrons are extranuclear particles. These options fail to match the standard scientific meaning of nucleons as the particles that make up the nucleus.

Common Pitfalls:
Some students confuse the terms nucleons and subatomic particles, thinking that all subatomic particles must be nucleons. Another pitfall is to focus on charge rather than location and assume that any combination of charged and neutral particles could be nucleons. To avoid these misunderstandings, remember that nucleons are specifically those particles that reside in the nucleus, namely protons and neutrons. Keeping this definition clear helps in solving problems involving mass number, isotopes, and nuclear reactions.

Final Answer:
Nucleons are the subatomic particles found in the nucleus, namely protons and neutrons.