Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

These flashcards cover key concepts related to atomic structure, the periodic table, and electron behavior.

What defines the atomic number of an atom?

The atomic number is defined by the number of protons in an atom.

What is the significance of valence electrons in determining element properties?

The number of valence electrons determines many properties of an element, including its position in the periodic table.

What are the two main types of lists in the periodic table?

Horizontal lists are called periods, and vertical lists are called groups.

In the Bohr model, what are electron shells?

Electron shells are defined areas of space around the nucleus where electrons move.

What is the relationship between electron shells and their maximum capacity?

The maximum number of electrons in a shell is given by the formula 2n², where n is the shell number.

What happens to electrons when they absorb energy in a flame?

Electrons absorb energy to jump to a higher energy shell and then release energy as light when they return to their normal levels.

What is an emission spectrum?

An emission spectrum is the pattern of wavelengths observed as colored lines, unique to each element.

What is the outermost electron shell of an atom called?

The outermost electron shell is known as the valence shell.

What do the rows (periods) in the periodic table indicate?

The atomic number increases by one for each element as you move across a period.

Why do electrons fill the shell closest to the nucleus first?

Electrons fill the closest shell first because it is a lower-energy state and more stable.