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 in shells.

Front

What are protons?

Back

Protons are positively charged subatomic 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 neutrons?

Back

Neutrons are neutral subatomic 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 are electrons?

Back

Electrons are negatively charged subatomic particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom in electron shells. They play a key role in chemical bonding.

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 isotope?

Back

Isotopes are variants of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, resulting in different atomic masses.

Front

How do you determine the number of neutrons in an isotope?

Back

To find the number of neutrons in an isotope, subtract the atomic number (number of protons) from the mass number (total number of protons and neutrons).

Front

What is the mass number?

Back

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

Front

What is a neutral atom?

Back

A neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons, resulting in no overall charge.

Front

Where are protons located in an atom?

Back

Protons are located inside the atomic nucleus.