Chemical Makeup of Cells: Basic Chemistry Terms

What is the charge of an atom that has more electrons than protons?

Which of the following describes cations?

What do neutrons contribute to an atom?

Which type of bond is characterized by the sharing of electron pairs?

What is a major characteristic of non-polar covalent bonds?

What is the main difference between cations and anions?

What is the consequence of an atom having an unequal amount of neutrons and protons?

Which statement is true regarding bond strength?

Chemical Makeup of Cells: Basic Chemistry Terms

Elements are fundamental building blocks of matter, found on the periodic table. They are pure substances from which all other things are made.
Atoms are the individual building blocks of elements.
Neutrons are neutral (no charge) and add mass to an atom without affecting its charge.
Protons have a positive charge.
Electrons have a negative charge.
An atom's charge depends on the balance of protons and electrons; an equal number results in a neutral charge. More electrons create a negative charge (anion), while more protons create a positive charge (cation). The number of neutrons affects the atom's mass but not its charge.
Ions are atoms with an unequal number of protons and electrons. Cations are positively charged, anions are negatively charged.

Molecules and Chemical Bonds

Molecules are formed by combining atoms of elements.
Covalent bonds are strong bonds where atoms share electrons. Double bonds are a stronger type of covalent bond. Nonpolar covalent bonds involve equal sharing of electrons.
Noncovalent bonds are weaker bonds that may break more easily and involve hydrogen atoms bonded to another atom with a high electronegativity.

Explore the fundamental concepts of chemistry, focusing on the building blocks of matter, including elements, atoms, and the behavior of ions. This quiz covers essential chemistry terms that form the foundation for understanding molecules and chemical bonds. Test your knowledge on atoms, protons, neutrons, and the different types of charges.