What describes the arrangement of protons and neutrons in an atom?

The arrangement of protons and neutrons in an atom is best described by atomic structure. This term encompasses not only the positioning of protons and neutrons within the nucleus but also how these particles define the properties of the element, such as atomic number and mass number. In atomic structure, protons and neutrons form the central nucleus, while the distribution of electrons around this nucleus gives insight into chemical behavior and bonding.

Other terms, while related, do not specifically address the arrangement of protons and neutrons. Nuclear configuration pertains to how these particles are organized within the nucleus, but it is less comprehensive than the broader term atomic structure. The concept of the electron cloud refers to the area where electrons are likely to be found, which is separate from the nucleus itself. Isotopic notation conveys information about the specific isotopes of an element, including the number of neutrons, but it does not describe the overall arrangement of protons and neutrons in a structural sense.

Thus, atomic structure is the most appropriate term to capture the complete arrangement and interaction of protons and neutrons within an atom.