Subatomic particles:

The three primary subatomic particles that make up an atom are protons (positive charge), neutrons (neutral charge), and electrons (negative charge).

​ Atomic Structure

Nucleus:

The central core of an atom where protons and neutrons reside, making up the majority of the atom's mass. 

​ Atomic Structure

​Electrons and protons are attracted to each other by an electromagnetic force—a physical interaction between electrically charged particles. The closer the electron is to the nucleus, the higher the energy needed to separate it.



On the following slide, you will be able to interact with the charges that are present in an atom. Notice how the positive and Negative Charges affect the attraction.

​Positive and Negative Charges

​Intermolecular Charge:

The positive charge and negative charge we just saw examples of had an attraction to each other. This what makes an atom stick together. The neutrons do not have any charge and are like "spacers". This keeps some of the like charges from repelling. Repelling charges would cause the atom to NOT stay together. Intermolecular charge is stronger on an atom with a larger nucleus that has all eight electrons. The more valence electron spots that are filled make an atom more stable.