Atomic Structure Quiz

Study Notes

Atomic Structure

Atoms are the smallest unit of matter that can participate in chemical reactions.
Each atom consists of a nucleus surrounded by a cloud of electrons.
The nucleus contains protons and neutrons.
Protons carry a positive charge, neutrons are neutral, and electrons carry a negative charge.
The number of protons in an atom is called the atomic number.
This also equals the number of electrons in a neutral atom.
The mass of an atom is primarily concentrated in the nucleus because protons and neutrons are much heavier than electrons.
The mass number (nucleon number) represents the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
To find the number of neutrons, subtract the atomic number from the mass number.
Electrons are arranged in energy levels called electron shells.
The further the shell is from the nucleus, the higher the energy level.
Electronic configuration describes the arrangement of electrons in an atom.
Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom.
Elements in the same group on the Periodic Table have the same number of valence electrons.

Example: Carbon Atom (C)

Atomic Number: 6
Mass Number: 12
Number of Protons: 6
Number of Electrons: 6
Number of Neutrons: 6 (12 - 6 = 6)

Example: Oxygen (O)

Oxygen has 8 electrons with an electronic configuration of 2, 6.
2 electrons are in the first shell, and 6 electrons are in the second shell.

Example: Magnesium (Mg)

Magnesium has 12 electrons with an electronic configuration of 2, 8, 2.
2 electrons are in the first shell, 8 in the second, and 2 in the third shell.

Description

Test your knowledge on the fundamentals of atomic structure, including the components of an atom, atomic number, mass number, and electron configuration. This quiz will help you understand the significance of protons, neutrons, and electrons in chemical reactions.