# Describe the structure of an atom, including the particles found in its nucleus and the arrangement of electrons.

> WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales) — 1.7 Particles and nuclear structure · Describe · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The nucleus is found at the centre of the atom
2. The nucleus contains protons and neutrons
3. Protons are positively charged (and neutrons have no charge / are neutral)
4. Electrons orbit/surround the nucleus (in shells / at different energy levels)
5. Electrons are negatively charged and the atom overall is electrically neutral (because the number of protons equals the number of electrons)

## Key terms

- [nucleus](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/nucleus)
- [electron](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electron)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-structure-of-an-atom-502254bb) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.