Atoms and Ions

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 is a proton?

Back

A proton is a positively charged particle found in the nucleus of an atom. The number of protons determines the atomic number and identity of an element.

Front

What is a neutron?

Back

A neutron is a neutral particle found in the nucleus of an atom. It contributes to the atomic mass but does not affect the charge of the atom.

Front

What is an electron?

Back

An electron is a negatively charged particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons.

Front

What is the atomic number?

Back

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element's identity.

Front

What is an ion?

Back

An ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net charge.

Front

What is a cation?

Back

A cation is a positively charged ion, formed when an atom loses one or more electrons.

Front

What is an anion?

Back

An anion is a negatively charged ion, formed when an atom gains one or more electrons.

Front

How many protons are in a neutral oxygen atom?

Back

8

Front

How many protons are in a neutral nitrogen atom?

Back

7