Matter Keywords

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Atom

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The smallest unit of an element that retains the properties of that element. It consists of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.

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Particle

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A small portion of matter. Particles can be subatomic, such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.

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Proton

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A positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom. It determines the atomic number of an element.

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Electron

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A negatively charged subatomic particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom. Electrons are involved in chemical bonding and electricity.

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Neutron

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A subatomic particle with no electric charge, found in the nucleus of an atom. Neutrons contribute to the mass of an atom and provide stability to the nucleus.

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Mass number

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The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.

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Atomic Number

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The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which defines the element.

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Electron Arrangement

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The distribution of electrons in an atom's electron shells or orbitals. This arrangement determines an atom's chemical properties and reactivity.

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Valence Shell

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The outermost electron shell of an atom that contains the valence electrons. These electrons are involved in forming chemical bonds.

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Matter

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Any substance that is made up of particles that occupy space and have mass.