Atomic Structure Flashcards
What are the three main subatomic particles in an atom ?
Protons, neutrons, and elections
Where are protons and neutrons located in the atom?
In the nucleus
What is the role of electrons in an atom?
They orbit the nucleus and are involved in chemical bonding and ionisation
What does the atomic number of an atom represent?
The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom
How is the mass number of an atom calculated?
Mass number = protons + neutrons
What is ionisation?
Process by which an atom or molecule gains or loses electrons to form an ion
What are isotopes?
Atoms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons
Why is atomic structure important in radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy relies on ionising radiation to disrupt the atomic structure of cancer cells, causing cell damage and death
Explain why ionisation is important in radiotherapy
Causes disruption in the atomic structure of cancer cells, damaging their DNA and preventing them from dividing and growing
What is an isotope and how can it be used in medical applications like radiotherapy?
Isotopes are atoms with the same number of protons but different neutrons. Radioactive isotope are often used in radiotherapy to target and destroy cancerous tissues
