Foundations to Atoms

Protons

Positive particle in the nucleus of an atom

Neutron

Particle with no charge in the nucleus of an atom

Electron

Negatively charged particle in the electron cloud of an atom

Ion

Atom with a charge, different # of protons and electrons

Isotope

Atom with same # protons (same element), different # of neutrons

Cation

Positive charge, less electrons

Anion

Negative charge, more electrons

Atomic mass

neutrons + protons

Atomic number

number of protons

Alpha ()

Decay with 2 protons + 2 neutrons; low penetration, but dangerous if entered the body

Beta ()

Radiate (high energy) election; can travel further than alpha and are damaging

Gamma ()

Radiate short wavelength (energy); Penetrates deeply and damaging

Positron ()

(Protron into a neutron so releases) Electron; small and generally not harmful

Electron Capture ()

(Nucleus absorbs) Electron; Barely penetrates, not harmful