Atoms and Elements Flashcards
Atomic Structure
The structure of an atom that consists of three subatomic particles which include the protons and neutrons, which are found in the nucleus (center) of an atom, and electrons which float around the clouds of an atom.
Electrons
A subatomic particle with a negative charge that occurs outside an atomic nucleus. Much smaller than the other subatomic particles.
Neutrons
A subatomic particle with a neutral charge and that exists in the nucleus. About the same size as a proton.
Protons
A subatomic particle, with a positive charge and that is found in atomic nuclei. About the same size as the electron but same mass as the electron. The amount of protons in an atom determines the element.
Ions
An atom (or group of atoms) that has a net positive charge or a net negative charge [gained (anion) or lost (cation) an electron]
Isotopes
atoms of the same element with a different number of neutrons. Has the same atomic number but different atomic mass.
Average Atomic Mass
The average mass of the atoms of the isotopes of a given element as they occur naturally.
Metals
An element or an alloy that is a good conductor of electricity, that has a shiny surface, and that is malleable and ductile; an element that normally forms positive ions (cation) and has an oxide that is basic.
Metalloids
Elements with properties that lie between those of metals and nonmetals, and that are found in the periodic table around the zig-zag.
Alkali Metals
The elements in Group 1A. Elements include lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, and francium.
Alkali Earth Metals
The Group 2A elements—beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium.
Halogens
Group 7A in the periodic table— fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine.
Period
Horizontal rows in the periodic table.
Group and/or Family
Vertical columns in the periodic table.
Noble Gases
Group 8A in the periodic table—helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, and radon.
