Atoms and Elements Flashcards
1
Q
Describe the structure of an Atom
A
An atom consists of central positive nucleus (containing protons and neutrons) orbited by negative electrons in shells/orbitals
2
Q
Protons mass and charge =
A
Mass: 1
Charge: +1
3
Q
Neutrons mass and charge =
A
Mass: 1
Charge: 0
4
Q
Electrons mass and charge =
A
Mass: neglible
Charge: -1
5
Q
Why is an atom always neutral?
A
Because an atom contains equal numbers of positive protons and negative electrons. the charges cancel each other out
