Atomic Structure Flashcards
True or false? People used to believe that atoms were tiny spheres that couldn’t be broken apart.
True
What happens to an electron if it releases EM radiation?
They move closer to the nucleus.
Who proved evidence to suggest the existence of the neutron?
James Chadwick
True or false? Electrons make up most of the mass of an atom.
False
What is the overall charge of an atom?
Neutral (0)
What happens to an atom if it loses one or more of its electrons?
It becomes a positively charged ion
Which number defines what element and atom is - the atomic number or the mass number?
Atomic number
What is the atomic number of an atom?
The number of protons or electrons in an atom.
What is the mass number of an atom?
The mass of protons and neutrons in an atom.
What is an isotope?
An element with a different amount of neutrons in it.
Are isotopes usually stable?
No
Define half-life.
The time taken for the radioactive nuclei to halve.
Define irradiation.
Exposure to radiation
Define contamination.
Radioactive particles getting onto objects
Give two examples of how to protect against contamination.
Wear gloves and use tongs
