Atoms, Ions, & Isotopes

Front

What is the nucleus of an atom?

Back

The nucleus is the central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons, and is responsible for the atom's atomic mass.

Front

What happens to an atom when it loses an electron?

Back

It becomes a positive ion because it has more protons than electrons.

Front

What is an electron cloud?

Back

The electron cloud is a model that describes the regions around the nucleus where electrons are likely to be found.

Front

What happens to an atom when it gains an electron?

Back

It becomes a negative ion because it has more electrons than protons.

Front

What defines a neutral atom?

Back

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

Front

What are protons?

Back

Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom.

Front

What are neutrons?

Back

Neutrons are neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom, contributing to atomic mass.

Front

What are electrons?

Back

Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom.

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 charge.

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.