atomic structure Flashcards
how does an atom become an ion?
an atom becomes an ion when it loses or gains an electron
why is a cation called a cation?
a cation is called cation because it has more protons than electrons
why is an anion called an anion
an anion is called anion because it has more electrons than protons
what is proton number/atomic number?
the number of protons in an atom
what is the nucleon number/mass number?
total number of protons and neutrons in an atom
what are isotopes?
Isotopes are atoms of the same element but with different number of neutrons. Most elements
that commonly occur are made up of isotopes.
why do isotopes have similar chemical properties but different physical properties.
Isotopes have similar electronic configuration and number of valence electrons. The chemical
properties of isotopes are similar because chemical reactions involve only valence electrons.
The physical properties differ due to different relative masses of the isotopes.
what are Radioisotopes
Isotopes that emit high-energy radiation are called radioisotopes.
