Atomic Structure and Elements

Essential Questions

What is the relationship between an atom and an element?

How are protons and neutroms different from and similar to each other?

How are protons, electrons, and neutrons arranged to form an atom?

How do electons differ from both protons and neutrons?

What are two ways electrons can be gained or lost from an atom?

Summary: Atoms are within an element, and an element is used to identify atoms.Evidence: Elements are defined as a substance that can not be broken down by chemical means. All the atoms within the element are the sameExample: Gold is made up of exactly one type of atom, so it can not be broken down any further.

Summary: Protons have a postive charge and neutrons have no charge. They are about the same mass and they are located in the nucleus. Evidence: Neutrons and protons both weigh about 1 atomic mass unit. They are both located in the nucleus. Example: Silicon (sand) has 14 protons and 14 neutrons. Since the weight of the subatomic particls are about the same, the atomic mass equals 28 atomic mass units

Summary: Protons and neutrons are in the nucleus and electrons are outside the nucleus. There are different numbers of each one in each atom.Evidence: The electrons orbit the nucleus in energy shells. The protons and neutrons don't move from the nucleus. Example: The thickness of a sheet of writing paper is about 1 million atoms wide.

Summary: Electrons have a negative charge and they are located outside the nucleus. Protons have a positive charge and neutrons have no charge and they are both located in the nuclues.Evidence: Electrons can move from atom to atom while protons and neutrons stay in the same atom.Example: The flow of electrons causes electricity. Electrons move very quickly through conductors such as copper.

Summary: Atoms can lose or gain electrons if they bump into each other. Atoms can also be gained or lost by electrical currents. Evidence: Atoms lose electrons very easily. The flow and movement of electrons is defined as electricity. Example: Copper wire is used to conduct electricity because electrons can move faster through it.

Atomic Structure and Elements

Resources-Elements-Explore Tab-Getting to Know

Resources:-Subatomic Paricles

Resources:-Electrons-Build an Atom-The Structure and Scale of the Atom

Resources:-Evaluate Tab-Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

Resources:-Drawing Parts of the Atom