Atomic Number, Mass Number & Ions

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding atomic number, mass number, ions, and the behavior of subatomic particles in relation to atomic structure.

Atomic Number (Z)

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.

Mass Number (A)

The total number of protons and neutrons in an atom.

Neutron Calculation

Neutrons = mass number − atomic number.

What does atomic number indicate?

It identifies the element and its position on the periodic table.

Which particle changes to create ions?

The number of electrons changes.

Ion with 12 protons and 10 electrons

Mg²■.

Ion with 17 protons and 18 electrons

Cl■.

Ionic charge of 26 protons, 30 neutrons, and 24 electrons

Fe²■.

Atomic number and mass number of 11 protons and 12 neutrons

Atomic number = 11 (Na), mass number = 23.

Ion symbol for +1 ion from 19 protons and 20 neutrons

K■ (potassium ion).

Difference between isotope and ion

Isotopes differ in neutrons; ions differ in electrons.

Electrons in neutral calcium atom

20 electrons.

Ion formed from neutral oxygen gaining two electrons

O²■ (oxide ion).

Particle determining the identity of an element

The proton.

Particle determining the isotope of an element

The neutron.

Relationship of protons and electrons in a neutral atom

In a neutral atom, protons = electrons.

Ion with 13 protons and 10 electrons

Al³■.

Element with mass number 40 and 18 neutrons

Titanium (Ti).

Nuclear symbol for 9 protons and 10 neutrons

¹■■F.

How does an atom become a positive ion (cation)?

By losing one or more electrons, resulting in more protons than electrons.