Protons

Protons are subatomic particles that are found in the nucleus of an atom. They have a positive electric charge and are important for determining the identity of an element.

Properties of Protons

• Electric Charge: +1 elementary charge
• Mass: Approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu)
• Location: Found in the nucleus of an atom
• Role: Determines the atomic number of an element

Role in the Atom

Protons are crucial for determining the identity of an element. The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom is what defines the element. For example, all hydrogen atoms have 1 proton, all helium atoms have 2 protons, and so on.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about protons:

1. What is the electric charge of a proton?
2. Where are protons located in an atom?
3. What role do protons play in determining the identity of an element?
4. How does the number of protons in an atom relate to the atomic number of an element?
5. What is the approximate mass of a proton?

[Protons] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Atomic Structure - Set IChemistry • High School