Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

Flashcards covering atomic structure, including atoms, protons, neutrons, electrons, nucleus, atomic number, and mass number.

Atom

The smallest unit of matter that retains the chemical properties of an element.

Protons

Positively charged particles located in the nucleus of an atom.

Neutrons

Neutral particles located in the nucleus of an atom.

Electrons

Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom.

Nucleus

The central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons, and possessing a positive charge.

Atomic Number

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element's identity.

Mass Number

The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.

Ion

An atom or molecule with a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of electrons.