Topic 3: Atoms and the Periodic Table Study Guide

Front

What is the 'Plum Pudding' model of the atom?

Back

A model proposed by J.J. Thomson, suggesting that atoms are composed of a positively charged 'soup' with negatively charged electrons scattered throughout.

Front

Who discovered the proton?

Back

Ernest Rutherford discovered the proton through the Gold Foil Experiment.

Front

What determines the chemical properties of an element?

Back

The number of valence electrons in the atom of an element determines its chemical properties.

Front

What is a negatively charged ion called?

Back

An anion.

Front

What does the number at the top of an element box represent?

Back

The atomic number of the element.

Front

What is an atom?

Back

The smallest unit of an element, consisting of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Front

What are protons?

Back

Positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom.

Front

What are neutrons?

Back

Neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom, contributing to its mass.

Front

What are electrons?

Back

Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom.

Front

What is the atomic mass?

Back

The weighted average mass of an element's isotopes, usually expressed in atomic mass units (amu).