C2- atoms into ions

Sub-atomic particles

The particles that make up atoms, including protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Protons

Positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom.

Neutrons

Neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom that do not have an electric charge.

Electrons

Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom, the smallest sub-atomic particle.

Ion

An atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons and has a net electric charge.

Electron Shells

Regions around the nucleus where electrons are likely to be found; each shell can hold a maximum number of electrons.

Full outer shell

A stable electron configuration where the outermost shell of an atom is filled with the maximum number of electrons.

Negatively charged ion

An ion that has gained electrons, resulting in a surplus of negative charge, commonly formed by non-metals.

Electron configuration

The distribution of electrons in an atom's electron shells.

Why do atoms react?

Atoms react to achieve a stable electron configuration, typically by gaining or losing electrons.

Electronic structure

The arrangement of electrons in an atom or ion, represented by a diagram of its electron shells.