A neutral atom of sodium -22 has a theoretical mass of 22.99 amu However, the actual calculated mass of the atom is 21 .873 amil. Which of the following explanations is true? a The mass is converted into energy to hold the electrons in orbit b The mass is converted into energy to hold the nucleus together C change The mass of individual protons and neutrons can d The mass is lost as radiation

The correct explanation is:<br /><br />c. The mass of individual protons and neutrons can change.<br /><br />This phenomenon is known as mass defect, which occurs because the mass of an atom is less than the sum of the masses of its individual protons and neutrons. This mass difference is due to the binding energy that holds the nucleus together, as described by Einstein's mass-energy equivalence principle (E=mc²).