Chemistry Basics

An atom is the basic unit of matter. It consists of a nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, and electrons orbiting around the nucleus.

Atomic number represents the number of protons in an atom's nucleus, while atomic mass represents the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

Columns, or groups, represent elements with similar chemical properties and valence electron configurations.

<p>Alkali metals have one valence electron that they want to lose, while halogens have seven valence electrons that they want to gain. This creates a strong driving force for a reaction between the two groups.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Noble gases have a full outer electron shell, making them stable and unreactive.</p> Signup and view all the answers