Subatomic Particles
Atoms are composed of 3 parts: protons, electrons, and neutrons. Protons have a positive charge, electrons have a negative charge, and neutrons have negligible charge. The nucleus of an atom is very small compared to the rest of the atom, and nearly all of the mass is concentrated in the nucleus. Atoms have the same number of protons and electrons, and their charges cancel out, resulting in a neutral atom.
Helium Atom
The atomic structure of a helium atom can be represented in an atomic structure diagram, showing the arrangement of protons, electrons, and neutrons.
History of the Atom
Throughout history, various models have been proposed to describe the atomic structure. From Dalton's billiard ball model to Thomson's plum pudding model, and Rutherford's planetary model, each contributed to our understanding of the atom.
Isotopes
Isotopes are different versions of an element's atom. The proton number remains the same, but isotopes contain a different number of neutrons. This results in a different relative atomic mass for each isotope.
Relative Atomic Mass
The relative atomic mass is calculated by taking the mass number on the periodic table into account. Isotopes and their respective abundance percentages are used to calculate the relative atomic mass, which can be a decimal.
Periodic Table
The periodic table is used to identify patterns in elements, including their relative atomic mass, atomic symbol, and atomic number. It organizes elements by atomic number and properties, dividing them into metals and non-metals.
Mendeleev's Table is based on the atomic mass and chemical behavior of elements. He organized the elements by atomic mass and properties, leaving gaps as predictions for undiscovered elements. He also had to rearrange some elements due to the existence of isotopes.
Ionic Bonding
Ionic bonding involves the formation of a bond between a metal and non-metal. It results in the formation of charged particles known as cations (positively charged) and anions (negatively charged). This type of bonding is formed when atoms lose or gain electrons, resulting in unbalanced charges.
Covalent Bonding
Covalent bonding is a bond between non-metals, where atoms share electrons to achieve a stable outer shell configuration. This type of bonding results in the formation of molecules.
By understanding the atomic structure, subatomic particles, isotopes, and different types of bonding, we gain valuable insights into the behavior and properties of elements in chemistry.
