Atomic Structure
Why are atoms and molecules referred to as the building blocks of matter? If you break them apart you no longer have an element or compound. Examples: If you break apart an atom of gold you no longer have gold. If you break apart a molecule of water it isn’t water any more.
How big are atoms? Really Small About 10-10 meter across Atoms are made up of even smaller components referred to as subatomic particles
What is an atom made of? Neutrons Neutral Charge Protons Positive Charge (+) Electrons Very small compared to protons and neutrons Negative Charge (-)
How are the particles arranged in the atom? Protons & Neutrons – Cluster in the nucleus Electrons – Move around outside the nucleus in energy levels that make up an electron cloud (shield). Energy levels are broken down into sublevels which hold a specific numbers of orbitals. An orbital is the region within an atom that an electron will most likely occupy. See the video clip Energy Levels, Sublevels & Orbitals
How are atoms held together? Atoms are held together by electro static forces and the strong nuclear force to form molecules.
The End