1) Atomic Structure and Electrostatics Flashcards
Where are the protons (+) and neutrons in an atom?
In the nucleus
Where are the electrons (-) in an atom?
They are orbiting it in shells or orbitals
What is the atomic number?
The number of protons / electrons
What is the mass number?
The number of protons + neutrons
What is an isotope?
An isotope is an element that has the same amount of protons and electrons but a different amount of neutrons
Explain the experiment with gold foil and alpha particles
A positive alpha beam was shined at gold foil. Zinc sulphide formed where the alpha particles ended up. The zinc sulphide was spread out as the beam was being scattered by the protons in the nucleus.
Explain what the plum pudding model looks like?
It was a positive sphere with negative electrons dotted inside it. If this was the case, the alpha beam would have gone straight through the foil.
Why was the alpha beam in the experiment with gold foil and alpha particles deflect at different angles?
As it was being repelled by a postive charge; and thus, meaning that there are protons and neutrons in the nucleus which are being orbited by electrons.
How does electrical conductors allow currents to pass through?
They have ‘free electrons’ as current is a flow of electrons
Why are metals good conductors?
Because metals have ‘free electrons’ because of the way they are bonded, this makes them good conductors
Why are plastics insulators?
Because plastics do not have ‘free electrons’ because of the way that they are bonded. No flow of electrons means no flow of current.
How can we give an insulartor charge?
When two objects rub together, one increases in electrons while the other decreases. The one that has gained is now negatively charged. They are electrostatic as the electrons are not flowing
What forces attract?
Opposite
What forces repel?
Similar
How do negatively charged objects return to their orgiinal format?
The electrons will try and find a way to Earth its charge. For example, a cloud through lighting or a car through your hand and body.
