Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

These flashcards cover key concepts in atomic structure, elements, compounds, and the periodic table.

What is the atomic structure comprised of?

Atoms contain protons, neutrons, and electrons.

What is the charge of an atom's nucleus?

The nucleus has a positive charge due to the presence of protons.

What is an ion?

An ion is an atom or group of atoms that has lost or gained electrons.

How can you determine the number of neutrons in an atom?

Subtract the atomic number from the mass number.

What are isotopes?

Isotopes are different forms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Define a compound.

A compound is a substance formed from two or more elements, with atoms held together by chemical bonds.

What types of bonding occur in compounds?

Compounds can bond ionically (between metals and non-metals) or covalently (between non-metals).

What is a chemical equation?

A chemical equation shows the reactants on the left-hand side and the products on the right-hand side.

What does relative atomic mass take into account?

Relative atomic mass accounts for the different isotopes of an element and their abundances.

How does the modern periodic table arrange elements?

Elements are arranged by increasing atomic number.

What is the typical maximum number of electrons in the first three shells?

2 electrons in the first shell, 8 in the second, and 8 in the third shell.

What is the difference between metals and non-metals?

Metals are strong, malleable, and good conductors, while non-metals are dull, brittle, and poor conductors.

What is the formula for carbon dioxide?

The formula for carbon dioxide is CO₂.

Who is credited with creating the modern periodic table?

Dmitri Mendeleev is credited with creating the modern periodic table.

What happens to the reactivity of alkali metals as you go down the group?

The reactivity of alkali metals increases as you go down the group.