Atom Basics

Front

What is an atom?

Back

An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.

Front

What is the atomic number of an element?

Back

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.

Front

How many protons does an atom with atomic number 6 have?

Back

6 protons.

Front

What is the atomic symbol for sodium?

Back

Na.

Front

What is the nucleus of an atom?

Back

The nucleus is the central region of an atom that contains protons and neutrons.

Front

What is the charge of a proton?

Back

A proton has a positive charge.

Front

What is the charge of a neutron?

Back

A neutron has no charge (it is neutral).

Front

What is the charge of an electron?

Back

An electron has a negative charge.

Front

What does atomic mass represent?

Back

Atomic mass represents the average mass of an atom, accounting for the number of protons and neutrons.

Front

What is the electron cloud?

Back

The electron cloud is the region around the nucleus where electrons are likely to be found.