The Basics of Atoms

An element is a pure substance that cannot be separated into simpler substances by physical or chemical means. The atom is the smallest particle of an element that still maintains the properties of that element. When you break down matter to its most basic level, you find these incredible atomic structures.

Atoms are made up of three main subatomic particles, each with unique properties. Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus (the center of the atom) and have a mass of 1 AMU (Atomic Mass Unit). Neutrons live alongside protons in the nucleus, have no electrical charge, and also have a mass of 1 AMU. Think of neutrons as the "glue" that holds the positively charged protons together in the nucleus.

Electrons are the third main component of atoms. These negatively charged particles orbit the nucleus in energy levels within what's called the electron cloud. Unlike protons and neutrons, electrons have almost no mass—they're incredibly light, almost zero AMU!

💡 Fun Fact: If an atom were the size of a football stadium, the nucleus would only be about the size of a pea in the center. The rest is mostly empty space where electrons move around!