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 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; they have no charge.

Front

What are electrons?

Back

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

Front

What is the atomic number?

Back

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element.

Front

What is the atomic mass?

Back

The atomic mass is the average mass of an atom of an element, measured in atomic mass units (amu).

Front

What is a chemical symbol?

Back

A chemical symbol is a one or two-letter abbreviation used to represent an element on the periodic table.

Front

What is the nucleus of an atom?

Back

The nucleus is the central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons.

Front

What is the difference between an element and a compound?

Back

An element is a pure substance made of only one type of atom, while a compound is made of two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded together.

Front

What is the Periodic Table?

Back

The Periodic Table is a chart that organizes all known elements by their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties.