Introduction to Subatomic Particles and Atomic Structure

Vocabulary flashcards covering the basic concepts of subatomic particles, atomic structure, atomic numbers, and key elements from Chapter 1 through Chapter 6.

Proton

A subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom that has a positive one ($+1$) charge and a weight of $1$ mass unit.

Neutron

A neutral subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom that has $0$ charge and is equal in weight to a proton.

Electron

A negatively charged subatomic particle with a negative one ($-1$) charge that surrounds the nucleus in electron clouds, with a mass almost over $1,800$ times smaller than a proton.

Nucleus (Atomic Level)

The central structure of an atom that is formed by protons and neutrons.

Atomic Number

The number of protons in an atom, which defines the specific element on the periodic table.

Atomic Symbol

The abbreviation of an element's name shown on the periodic table.

Carbon

An element with an atomic number of $6$ (containing $6$ protons) that can be found in the human body, graphite, and diamonds.

Nitrogen

An element with an atomic number of $7$ (containing $7$ protons) that makes up around $70\%$ of the air we breathe.

Oxygen

An element essential for human life that cells need in order to perform aerobic respiration and keep up with energy demands.