The Structure of the Atom and the Periodic Table

A set of flashcards covering the key concepts, terminology, and discoveries related to the structure of the atom and the periodic table, including historical developments and important scientists' contributions.

Atom

The basic unit of a chemical element, consisting of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.

Dalton's Atomic Theory

A theory that states all matter consists of tiny particles called atoms, which cannot be created, destroyed, or divided.

Proton

A positively charged particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Electron

A negatively charged particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom.

Neutron

An electrically neutral particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Isotope

Atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons.

Cathode Ray Tube

A device that uses a stream of electrons to produce images and was instrumental in discovering electrons.

Mass-to-Charge Ratio (M/Z)

The ratio that describes the mass of a particle relative to its charge.

Gold Foil Experiment

An experiment by Ernest Rutherford that demonstrated the presence of a dense nucleus in the atom.

Radioactivity

The spontaneous emission of high-energy radiation and particles from unstable atomic nuclei.

Alpha Particles

Positively charged particles that are emitted during radioactive decay.

Beta Particles

High-energy electrons that are emitted during radioactive decay.

Nuclear Model of the Atom

A model where the atom consists of a dense positively charged nucleus surrounded by electrons.