Introduction to Atoms

Vocabulary term: Atom

• Atoms are the smallest part of an element

• They are considered the basic building blocks of life

Parts of the atom

• Protons

• Neutrons

• Electrons

​Protons

• Protons are positively charged particles

• The identity of an element is determined by the number of protons in the element

Three subatomic particles

• Protons

• Neutrons

• Electrons

Neutrons

• Particles with NO CHARGE

• Contributes to the mass of the atom

• Provide stability to the atom

Electrons

• Negatively charged particles

• Surround the nucleus

Protons and neutrons make up the atom's nucleus, which is located in the center of the atom

Electrons surround the nucleus.

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Locations of Subatomic Particles

Nucleus

• Protons and neutrons are bound in a tiny nucleus.

• The nucleus is located in the center of the atom

• The electrons move in the space around the nucleus.

Mass

• Protons and neutrons have about the same mass

• An electron is much smaller and lighter than a proton or a neutron.

The WHOLE Atom

• Differences in these particles make new kinds of structures, which contribute to their function, stability, and location on the periodic table