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An atom is the complete building block of all elements, each element has its own unique atomic formation. An atom consists of a nucleus with a cloud of electrons surrounding it, and is electrically neutral unless ionised. The nucleus at the center of the atom consists of protons which are positively charged, and neutrons which are uncharged, and these are all bound together by the 'strong nuclear force', which has a very short range so it only is effective within the nucleus. Each chemical element (see the Periodic Table) is defined by a unique number of protons called the Atomic Number, and can have a variable number of neutrons so that there are different isotopes of the same element. The number of electrons in the atom is equal to the number of protons in the nucleus, unless the atom has been ionised.

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An atom is the basic unit of matter composed of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. The nucleus is the central core of an atom containing protons and neutrons, while electrons orbit around it. In summary, the nucleus is a part of an atom, specifically the central region, whereas an atom is the whole structure consisting of the nucleus and electrons.

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11mo ago
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Q: What is the difference between an atom and a nucleus?
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