Structure of 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 made of 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 neutrons?

Back

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

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 is the atomic number?

Back

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. It defines the element and its position in the periodic table.

Front

What is the mass number?

Back

The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom. It is used to identify isotopes of an element.

Front

What are isotopes?

Back

Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, resulting in different mass numbers.

Front

What is the electron configuration?

Back

Electron configuration is the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. It determines the chemical properties of the element.

Front

What is a valence electron?

Back

Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom. They are important for determining how an atom will bond with others.

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 electrical charge.