In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a neutral atom, the number of electrons must be equal to the number of protons to maintain electrical neutrality. Electrons carry a negative charge while protons carry a positive charge. By having an equal number of electrons and protons, the positive and negative charges balance each other out, resulting in an electrically neutral atom. Choice B is incorrect because in a neutral atom, the number of electrons and protons must be equal. Choice C is incorrect as it compares electrons to neutrons, which are not directly related in determining an atom's charge. Choice D is incorrect as the number of electrons in a neutral atom is not dependent on the atom's temperature but rather on the atom's balance of positive and negative charges.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The group number of an element on the periodic table corresponds to the number of valence electrons it has. Elements in the same group tend to form ions with the same charge. For example, elements in Group 1 typically form ions with a +1 charge, while elements in Group 17 typically form ions with a -1 charge. Therefore, by identifying the group number of an element, one can predict the typical ionic charge it will form. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because predicting the charge of an ion is mainly based on the element's position in the periodic table, particularly the group number, which indicates the number of valence electrons and the typical ionic charge it may form.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the strong nuclear force. It is an incredibly powerful force that overcomes the repulsive electrostatic force between protons, binding them together and stabilizing the nucleus. The strong nuclear force is essential for maintaining the integrity and stability of an atom's nucleus. Electromagnetism (Choice A) is responsible for interactions between charged particles but is not the primary force holding the nucleus together. Gravity (Choice B) is a very weak force at the nuclear level and is not responsible for binding protons and neutrons in the nucleus. The weak nuclear force (Choice D) is involved in certain types of radioactive decay processes, but it is not the force responsible for holding the nucleus together.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Carotene is the pigment responsible for the yellow color of bananas. It belongs to a group of plant pigments called carotenoids, which are responsible for giving fruits and vegetables their vibrant colors, including the yellow hue of bananas. Potassium, calcium, and phosphorus are essential minerals found in bananas but are not responsible for their yellow color.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Carbon is the correct answer as it is a critical element in DNA and RNA, forming the backbone of these molecules. Its ability to form diverse bonds allows for efficient storage and transmission of genetic information. Oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen are also present in DNA and RNA but do not serve as the primary backbone element for these molecules. Oxygen is involved in the structure but not as the backbone element. Nitrogen is present in the bases of nucleotides, and hydrogen bonds help stabilize the structure.