Atomic Structure, Isotopes and Ions

Front

What is the atomic structure of an atom?

Back

An atom consists of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons in orbitals.

Front

What are isotopes?

Back

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

Front

What is a cation?

Back

A cation is a positively charged ion, formed when an atom loses one or more electrons.

Front

What is an anion?

Back

An anion is a negatively charged ion, formed when an atom gains one or more electrons.

Front

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

Back

Subtract the atomic number (number of protons) from the atomic mass (rounded to the nearest whole number).

Front

What is the significance of the atomic number?

Back

The atomic number defines the element and is equal to the number of protons in the nucleus.

Front

What is the difference between atomic mass and atomic weight?

Back

Atomic mass is the mass of a single atom, while atomic weight is the average mass of an element's isotopes.

Front

What is the role of electrons in an atom?

Back

Electrons are involved in chemical bonding and determine the atom's charge and reactivity.

Front

What is a stable isotope?

Back

A stable isotope is one that does not undergo radioactive decay and remains unchanged over time.

Front

What is a radioactive isotope?

Back

A radioactive isotope is one that is unstable and decays over time, emitting radiation.