How does the structure of atoms in a substance determine the substance’s conductivity?(1 point)

Responses

If an atom’s nucleus is positively charged, the substance is a good conductor.
If an atom’s nucleus is positively charged, the substance is a good conductor.

If an atom’s outer shell of electrons is tightly bound to the nucleus, the substance is a good conductor.
If an atom’s outer shell of electrons is tightly bound to the nucleus, the substance is a good conductor.

If an atom’s outer shell of electrons is loosely bound to the nucleus, the substance is a good conductor.
If an atom’s outer shell of electrons is loosely bound to the nucleus, the substance is a good conductor.

If an atom’s outer shell of electrons is positively charged, the substance is a good conductor.

1 answer

The correct response is:

If an atom’s outer shell of electrons is loosely bound to the nucleus, the substance is a good conductor.

In conductive materials, such as metals, the outer electrons are not tightly bound to their respective nuclei, allowing them to move freely. This mobility of electrons is what facilitates electrical conductivity.