Chemistry and Atomic Structure Flashcards

Vocabulary-based flashcards covering the basic definitions of chemistry, matter, and atomic subatomic particles as described in the lecture notes.

Chemistry

The scientific study of matter and the various changes it undergoes during chemical reactions; it is often referred to as the central science because it connects and overlaps with other STEM disciplines.

Matter

Anything that has mass and takes up space.

Atoms

Fundamental particles that make up all matter, defined as the smallest unit of an element that maintains the chemical properties of that element.

Protons

Positively charged subatomic particles found in the dense center of the atom known as the nucleus.

Nucleus

The dense center of the atom containing protons and neutrons.

Neutrons

Neutrally charged subatomic particles that reside in the nucleus.

Electrons

Negatively charged particles that occupy the vast space surrounding the nucleus in regions called electron shells orbitals.

Elements

Pure substances consisting entirely of one type of atom, organized systematically on the periodic table of elements.

Periodic table of elements

A systematic organization of elements by their atomic number and groups defined by similar chemical behaviors and electronic configurations.