CHAPTER 1: STRUCTURE & PROPERTIES OF THE ATOM (QUESTIONS)

Explain what is meant by the term subatomic particles?

Subatomic particles, are particles that are smaller than an atom.

Explain why the mass of an electron is ignored, when the mass of an element ( in atomic mass units) is being calculated.

The mass of an electron is extremely small in comparison to the mass of a proton and neutron.

Compare the relative size and relative density of a nucleus to its atom?

The nucleus has a very small size, but a very high density, compared to the overall size of the atom.

Describe the composition of the nucleus of the atom?

The nucleus is the very small part of the atom that contains most of the mass of the atom, and all of the positive charge. It also contains the subatomic particles proton and neutron.

Explain how atoms which have electrically charged particles still have no overall electrical charge?

To be an element, the number of protons and neutrons must be equal. Therefore the charges will balance out, and the atom will be neutral.

Neutron

Where is it found in the atom: IN THE NUCLEUS Relative mass: 0 Charge: -1

Proton

Where is it found in the atom: IN THE NUCLEUS Relative mass: 1 Charge: +1

Electron

Where is it found in the atom: ORBITS THE NUCLEUS Relative mass: 1/1840 Charge: -1