Atoms and the Periodic Table

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions from the lecture on atoms and the periodic table.

Atom

The simplest and smallest particle composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Periodic Table of Elements

An arrangement of elements by increasing atomic number and similar properties.

Proton

A positively charged particle, found inside the nucleus of an atom.

Electron

A negatively charged particle that orbits the nucleus.

Neutron

A neutral particle, found inside the nucleus of an atom.

Chemical Property

A characteristic used to characterize materials based on their reactions.

Physical Property

A characteristic that can be observed without changing the substance.

Metal

Elements that are lustrous, malleable, and good conductors of heat and electricity.

Nonmetals

Elements that do not share the properties of metals.

Metalloids

Elements that share some properties of metals, but not all.

Alkali Metals

Group 1 elements that are very reactive, soft, with low melting and boiling points.

Alkaline Earth Metals

Group 2 elements that are highly reactive with high melting and boiling points.

Transition Metals

Group 3-12 elements, less reactive, harder metals with high density.

Halogens

Very reactive nonmetals (Group 17) that can exist in all states of matter at room temperature.

Noble Gases

Group 18 elements that are inert and have low reactivity.

Valence Electrons

The number of electrons in the outer shell that participate in chemical bonding.

Valency

The number of electrons an atom is willing to lose, gain, or share in a chemical reaction.

Ionic Bonding

The chemical bonding resulting from the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Ductile

A property of a substance that can be stretched into wires.

Malleable

A property of a substance that can be hammered into sheets.

Brittle

A property of a substance that means it can be easily broken into pieces.

Conductor

A substance that can carry electricity or heat.