Atomic Math Information

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to atomic structure, including protons, neutrons, electrons, and the properties of ions.

Atomic Number

The number of protons in an atom, indicating the identity of the element.

Mass Number

The total number of protons and neutrons in an atom.

Protons

Positively charged particles in the nucleus of an atom; equal to the atomic number.

Neutrons

Neutral particles in the nucleus of an atom; mass number minus atomic number.

Electrons

Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom; equal to the number of protons in a neutral atom.

Ion

A charged particle, which can be either positive or negative.

Cation

A positively charged ion, formed when the number of protons is greater than the number of electrons.

Anion

A negatively charged ion, formed when the number of protons is less than the number of electrons.

Charge Calculation

Charge of an ion can be found by the formula: protons - electrons.

Neutral Atom

An atom where the number of protons equals the number of electrons, resulting in a charge of zero.