Atomic Theory Overview

The smallest particle of an element that can exist and still retain the chemical properties of that element.

Ancient Greek philosopher who first proposed the idea of atoms as indivisible particles.

Dalton's model of the atom, where atoms are viewed as solid, indivisible spheres.

Atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

The force that attracts the negatively charged electrons to the positively charged nucleus.

The model of the atom proposed by J.J. Thomson, where electrons are embedded in a positively charged sphere like plums in a pudding.

The central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons.

A positively charged particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

A negatively charged particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom.

A neutral particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element's identity.

The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.

A stable isotope is one that does not decay over time, while an unstable isotope will decay, emitting particles and energy.

The force that holds the protons and neutrons together in the nucleus, despite the repulsive forces between the protons.

The force responsible for the decay of unstable isotopes, allowing neutrons to transform into protons and electrons.

Scientist who discovered that atoms contain a positively charged nucleus, with electrons orbiting around it.

Scientist who proposed that electrons move around the nucleus in specific energy levels or shells.

The model of the atom proposed by Niels Bohr, where electrons orbit the nucleus in specific energy levels.

The region around the nucleus of an atom where electrons are most likely to be found.

The modern model of the atom, which incorporates the idea of electron clouds and the uncertainty of electron positions.

The process by which an atom gains or loses electrons, resulting in a charged atom called an ion.

A charged atom formed by the gain or loss of electrons.

An ion that has a positive charge, formed when an atom loses electrons.

An ion that has a negative charge, formed when an atom gains electrons.

The process by which atoms combine to form new substances with different properties.

A type of chemical bond formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms.

A type of chemical bond formed by the transfer of electrons from one atom to another.

The smallest unit of a compound that retains the chemical properties of that compound.