Atoms and the Periodic Table

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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.

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What are protons?

Back

Protons are positively charged subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. The number of protons determines the element's atomic number.

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.

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What are electrons?

Back

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

Front

What is the periodic table?

Back

The periodic table is a tabular arrangement of elements organized by increasing atomic number, which reflects the number of protons in the nucleus.

Front

What is an element?

Back

An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Each element is defined by its number of protons.

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What is the atomic number?

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

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What is the mass number?

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

Front

What is a chemical bond?

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A chemical bond is a lasting attraction between atoms that enables the formation of chemical compounds.

Front

What is a compound?

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A compound is a substance formed when two or more different elements chemically bond together.