Which statement describes the wave mechanical model of the electron?

• A. Electrons have wavelike and particle-like properties
• B. Electrons move in fixed orbits
• C. Electrons have definite positions at all times
• D. Electrons do not interact with photons

Answer: (A)

In the wave mechanical picture, matter exhibits both wave and particle aspects. Electrons are described by a wavefunction, whose square gives the probability of finding the electron in a particular region of space. This leads to orbitals—regions where the electron is likely to be found—rather than exact, fixed paths. The position of an electron isn’t definite at all times; measurements yield probabilities, reflecting intrinsic uncertainty. This dual wave-particle view is why the statement about electrons having wavelike and particle-like properties best describes the model. The other options echo older ideas (fixed orbits or definite positions regardless of measurement) or deny light–matter interactions that actually reveal the wave-particle nature.