2.1 Atoms & Atomic Structure

Question 1

Which 4 elements make up the bulk of living matter? (2.1)

Answer 1

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen

Question 2

Describe the basic structure of an atom; where in the atom are protons, neutrons, and electrons found? (2.1)

Answer 2

Protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus of the atom. Electrons orbit around the nucleus.

Question 3

How is Ca2+ different from Ca? What does the “2+” mean? (2.1)

Answer 3

Ca lose 2 electrons to obtain full octet, resulting in less electrons than protons, therefore 2+ positive charge

Question 4

How are ions formed? (2.1)

Answer 4

Forms when an atom loses or gains electrons

Question 5

How are radioisotopes useful to us? Why are they harmful? (2.1)

Answer 5

They could be useful medical diagnosis. Can be use in experiments or medicine as tracers. However, they are also chemically unstable, where the radiation they emit as they decay is harmful to living things. Radioisotopes decay, loses subatomic particles, emits dangerous energy, random chemical energy occurs.