Atomic Structure

Front

What is an atom?

Back

An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element. It consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Front

What are protons?

Back

Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom. The number of protons determines the identity of the element.

Front

What are neutrons?

Back

Neutrons are neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom. They contribute to the mass of the atom but do not affect its charge.

Front

What are electrons?

Back

Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom. They are involved in chemical bonding and reactions.

Front

What is the mass number of an atom?

Back

The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.

Front

How do you calculate the mass number?

Back

Mass number = Number of protons + Number of neutrons.

Front

What determines the identity of an element?

Back

The identity of an element is determined by the number of protons in its nucleus.

Front

What is atomic number?

Back

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which also equals the number of electrons in a neutral atom.

Front

What is the relationship between protons and electrons in a neutral atom?

Back

In a neutral atom, the number of protons equals the number of electrons, resulting in no overall charge.

Front

What is the charge of a proton?

Back

A proton has a positive charge.