Basic Chemistry Terms

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atom

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The smallest unit of a chemical element, consisting of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.

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subatomic particle

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Particles that are smaller than an atom, e.g., 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.

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neutron

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A subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom that has no charge.

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electron

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A negatively charged subatomic particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom.

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valence electron

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Electrons in the outer shell of an atom that are involved in forming bonds.

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orbitals

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Regions around the nucleus of an atom where electrons are likely to be found.

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electron cloud

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The region around the nucleus of an atom where electrons are likely to be found.

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nucleus

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

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atomic number

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