Exploring the Basics of Atoms and Elements

Professor Tidlybit explains that atoms are the fundamental building blocks of everything, from rocks to living organisms. Atoms are incredibly small, with more atoms in a grain of sand than grains of sand on a beach. There are 118 types of atoms, known as elements, listed on the Periodic Table. Surprisingly, 99% of the human body is made up of just six elements. Over a year, almost all atoms in the body are replaced through processes like eating and breathing, raising questions about identity and change.

How does the number of atoms in a grain of sand compare to the grains of sand on a beach?

• The number of atoms in a grain of sand is equal to the grains of sand on the beach

• There are fewer atoms in a grain of sand than grains of sand on the beach

• There are no atoms in a grain of sand

• There are more atoms in a grain of sand than grains of sand on the beach

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What are the fundamental building blocks of everything?

• Particles

• Cells

• Atoms

• Molecules

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How many kinds of atoms are found in nature?

• 99

• 94

• 24

• 118

What do scientists call each kind of atom?

• Particle

• Molecule

• Compound

• Element

Which element makes up 65% of the human body?

• Nitrogen

• Carbon

• Hydrogen

• Oxygen

What percentage of the human body is made up of carbon?

• 10%

• 18%

• 1.5%

• 3%

Which element is essential for strong bones?

• Nitrogen

• Calcium

• Oxygen

• Phosphorus

How often are almost all of the atoms in your body replaced?

• Every week

• Every month

• Every year

• Every decade

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Where do the atoms in your body come from?

• Only from the food you eat

• From everywhere on the planet

• Only from the place you were born

• Only from the air you breathe

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