Atomic Structure Basics

Atoms: The Building Blocks of Everything

• Atoms are the tiny building blocks that make up everything around us, from objects to stars.

Origin of the Term "Atom"

• The term "atom" comes from the ancient Greek word "atomos", meaning something that cannot be divided further.

Composition of Atoms

• An atom is made up of even smaller parts: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
• The nucleus is the central core of the atom, comprising protons and neutrons.
• Electrons are tiny particles that orbit around the nucleus, similar to planets orbiting the sun.

Characteristics of Atomic Components

• Protons are positively charged particles that reside in the nucleus.
• Neutrons are particles with no charge that reside in the nucleus.
• Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit around the nucleus.

Atomic Properties and Interactions

• The number of protons in an atom's core determines the element it represents, such as oxygen or carbon.
• The interaction between atomic components determines the properties of elements.

Studying Atoms

• Scientists cannot directly observe individual atoms, even with the strongest microscopes.
• Despite this limitation, scientists have learned a great deal about atoms through studying their interactions.

Quantum Mechanics

• The study of atoms and their behavior is a branch of science called quantum mechanics.
• Quantum mechanics is a complex and mysterious field that continues to be researched and explored.

Explore the tiny building blocks of matter, from atoms to their smaller parts. Learn about the structure of atoms and how they were once thought to be indivisible.