Atoms

Front

What is an atom?

Back

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.

Front

What are protons?

Back

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.

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 are neutrons?

Back

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.

Front

What is 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 positive ion?

Back

A positive ion, or cation, is formed when an atom loses one or more electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.

Front

What is a negative ion?

Back

A negative ion, or anion, is formed when an atom gains one or more electrons, resulting in a net negative charge.

Front

How do you determine the charge of an ion?

Back

The charge of an ion is determined by the difference between the number of protons and electrons. If protons > electrons, the ion is positive; if protons < electrons, the ion is negative.

Front

What happens when an atom loses an electron?

Back

When an atom loses an electron, it becomes a positive ion because it has more protons than electrons.