Rutherford's Atomic Theory Concepts

Front

What is Rutherford's Atomic Theory?

Back

Rutherford's Atomic Theory states that atoms consist of a small, dense nucleus that contains protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons in orbit. This theory was developed from the gold foil experiment.

Front

What is the charge of the nucleus of an atom?

Back

The nucleus of an atom is positively charged due to the presence of protons.

Front

What are isotopes?

Back

Isotopes are variants of a particular chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Front

How many protons does a calcium (Ca) atom have?

Back

A calcium (Ca) atom has 20 protons.

Front

What is a metallic bond?

Back

A metallic bond is a type of chemical bond formed by the attraction between positive ions and surrounding mobile electrons.

Front

What is the role of neutrons in an atom?

Back

Neutrons contribute to the mass of an atom and help stabilize the nucleus by offsetting the repulsive forces between protons.

Front

What happens to an atom when it gains or loses electrons?

Back

When an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged (anion). When it loses electrons, it becomes positively charged (cation).

Front

What is the significance of the atomic number?

Back

The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in its nucleus and determines the element's identity.

Front

What is the difference between ionic and covalent bonds?

Back

Ionic bonds are formed by the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, while covalent bonds are formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms.

Front

What is the formula for calculating the number of neutrons in an atom?

Back

Number of neutrons = Atomic mass - Atomic number.