The Structure and Behavior of Electrons in Atoms

Electrons are tiny particles, much smaller than protons and neutrons, with a negative charge. In neutral atoms, the number of electrons equals the number of protons. Electrons move rapidly around the nucleus, forming an electron cloud. This cloud is similar to bees swarming a hive. Electrons are confined to specific energy levels within the cloud. Low-energy electrons are closer to the nucleus, while high-energy electrons are farther away. The arrangement of electrons in these energy levels is crucial for determining how atoms interact with each other.

What are energy levels in relation to electrons?

How does the arrangement of electrons in energy levels affect atomic interactions?