Introduction to Atoms and Elements

Flashcards covering key concepts about atoms, elements, and the periodic table.

What are atoms?

Atoms are the smallest particles of matter that cannot be created or destroyed.

How is matter defined?

Matter is something that takes up space and has mass.

What are subatomic particles?

Subatomic particles are smaller particles inside an atom.

What is the nucleus of an atom?

The nucleus is the central part of an atom that contains protons and neutrons.

What are protons?

Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom.

What are neutrons?

Neutrons are neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom, meaning they have no charge.

What are electrons?

Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in shells.

What is the atomic number?

The atomic number is the number of protons in an atom's nucleus, which defines the element.

What distinguishes elements?

Elements are pure substances made of only one type of atom.

What is the mass number?

The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus.

What is the periodic table?

The periodic table is an arrangement of elements based on their properties and atomic numbers.

What is an atomic symbol?

An atomic symbol is a one or two-letter abbreviation used to represent an element.

What is unique about each element?

Each element has a unique atomic number based on the number of protons.

Why is most of an atom considered empty space?

Most of an atom is empty space surrounding the nucleus, containing the electrons.

What is the significance of Dmitry Mendeleev?

Dmitry Mendeleev developed the periodic table, organizing elements by their properties.