Atoms and Periodic Table

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What is an atom?

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

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What are protons?

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

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What are neutrons?

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

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What are electrons?

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

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What is atomic number?

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

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What is atomic mass?

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Atomic mass is the weighted average mass of an element's isotopes, measured in atomic mass units (amu). It reflects the total number of protons and neutrons.

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What is the Periodic Table?

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The Periodic Table is a tabular arrangement of elements organized by increasing atomic number, showing periodic trends in properties.

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What are groups in the Periodic Table?

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Groups are vertical columns in the Periodic Table. Elements in the same group have similar chemical properties and the same number of valence electrons.

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What are periods in the Periodic Table?

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Periods are horizontal rows in the Periodic Table. Each period represents a new energy level for electrons.

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What is a semiconductor?

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A semiconductor is a material that has electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. Elements like silicon and boron are common semiconductors.