Atomic structure Flashcards
Define an atom
An atom is the smallest indivisible particle of an element that can take part in a chemical reaction
What is the relative mass of an electron
1/1840
Where do protons deflect towards
Negative plate
Where do electrons deflect towards
Positive plate
Why is extent of deflection different for protons and electrons
Extent of deflection is directly proportional to charge/mass
Define isotope
Isotopes are atoms of the same element but with different number of neutrons
Why are atoms electrically neutral
They have the same number of protons and electrons
Define an orbital
An orbital is a region of space around the nucleus with the highest probability of locating electrons
What are s orbitals
- Spherical
- Differ in size
What are p orbitals
- Dumbbell shaped
- Differ in orientation
How does energy level differ between electron shells
Higher electron shell number
= Higher energy level
Why is the 4s orbital filled up before the 3d orbital
4s has a lower energy level than 3d
What is the octet rule
Octet rule is that atoms tend to combine is such a way that they end up with 8 electrons in their outer shell
Why are electrons removed from the 4s orbital before the 3d orbital
Energy level of 4s orbital will be higher than that of 3d orbital once it is filled, so electrons are removed from 4s first as they are first removed from highest energy orbitals
Define isoelectronic
Any atom or ions with the same number of electrons are said to be isoelectronic
