Atomic Theory and Structure Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering Dalton's atomic theory, subatomic particle properties, atomic notation symbols, isotopes, and ion formation.

Matter

Everything made of.

Dalton's Atomic theory

Theory stating all is made up of atoms, all atoms of a given element are identical in mass and property, compounds are 2 or more different types of atoms combined, and chemical reactions are rearrangement of atoms.

Subatomic particles

Particles including neutrons ($N$), protons ($P$), and electrons ($e$).

Nucleus

The center of the atom containing neutrons ($N$) and protons ($P$).

Proton

A subatomic particle with a mass of $1\,amu$; the number of protons defines the atomic number.

Neutron

A subatomic particle with a mass of $1\,amu$.

Electron

A subatomic particle with negligible mass; in a neutral atom, the number of electrons balances the number of protons.

Valence

The outside, highest energy electrons used for bonding.

Core

All electrons in an atom except for the valence electrons.

Atomic number

The number of protons, which always remains the same; changing this creates a new element.

Mass number

The sum of the number of protons and the number of neutrons ($P + N$).

Isotopes

Atoms that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Atomic weight

The weighted average of the masses of isotopes.

Ions

Atoms with a charge created by changing the number of electrons.

Cations

Positive ions formed when electrons are lost.

Anions

Negative ions formed when an atom gains electrons.