Y10 Physics - Atomic Structure

Front

What is the nucleus of an atom?

Back

The nucleus is the central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons, and it holds almost the entire mass of the atom.

Front

What is the charge of protons?

Back

Protons have a positive charge.

Front

What is the charge of electrons?

Back

Electrons have a negative charge.

Front

What is the charge of neutrons?

Back

Neutrons have no charge; they are neutral.

Front

What does the term 'atomos' mean?

Back

The term 'atomos' means 'indivisible', referring to the idea that atoms cannot be divided into smaller parts.

Front

What are the three main subatomic particles?

Back

The three main subatomic particles are protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Front

How do protons and electrons compare in mass?

Back

Protons are much heavier than electrons; a proton is about 1836 times the mass of an electron.

Front

What is the overall charge of an atom?

Back

An atom is electrically neutral because it has an equal number of protons and electrons.

Front

What happens to an alpha particle when it approaches a nucleus?

Back

An alpha particle can be deflected by the nucleus due to the positive charge of the protons in the nucleus.

Front

What is the role of neutrons in the nucleus?

Back

Neutrons help to stabilize the nucleus by offsetting the repulsive forces between protons.