Chemistry and Atomic Structure Flashcards

Introduction to Chemistry

• Chemistry is often referred to as the central science, connecting disciplines such as biology, physics, geology, and environmental science.
• Matter is defined as anything that has mass and takes up space.
• The discipline involves the study of matter and the changes it undergoes during chemical reactions.

Atomic Fundamentals

• Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of all matter and the smallest unit of an element that maintains its chemical properties.
• Atoms are composed of $3$ primary subatomic particles:
  • Protons: Positively charged particles located in the dense center known as the nucleus.
  • Neutrons: Neutrally charged particles that also reside in the nucleus.
  • Electrons: Negatively charged particles occupying regions surrounding the nucleus called electron shells orbitals.

Elements and the Periodic Table

• Elements are pure substances consisting of entirely one type of atom.
• The periodic table of elements organizes elements systematically by their atomic number.
• Elements are grouped based on similar chemical behaviors and electronic configurations.