📚 Topic Summary
Atoms, the fundamental building blocks of matter, are composed of even smaller particles called subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons are positively charged, neutrons have no charge, and electrons are negatively charged. The number of protons defines an element. Isotope notation is a shorthand way of representing specific isotopes of an element, showing the element's symbol, atomic number (number of protons), and mass number (total number of protons and neutrons).
Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping chemical behavior and nuclear processes. This worksheet will provide you with a review of these core concepts!
🧪 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
- Terms: Proton, Neutron, Electron, Atomic Number, Mass Number
- Definitions:
- A. The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
- B. A subatomic particle with a positive charge, located in the nucleus.
- C. A subatomic particle with a negative charge, orbiting the nucleus.
- D. The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.
- E. A subatomic particle with no charge, located in the nucleus.
Write your answers here (e.g., Proton - B):
⚛️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided: protons, neutrons, electrons, atomic number, mass number
The identity of an element is determined by its __________. The number of __________ in the nucleus plus the number of __________ equals the __________. __________ are found orbiting the nucleus.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain why isotopes of the same element have different mass numbers but similar chemical properties.