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What is an Atom?

An atom is the basic building block of all matter. It is the smallest unit of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element. Atoms are made up of three subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Structure of an Atom

The nucleus of an atom contains protons and neutrons, while electrons orbit the nucleus in energy levels or shells.

Protons: Positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom.

Neutrons: Neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom.

Electrons: Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in energy levels or shells.

Study Guide

1. What are the three subatomic particles that make up an atom?
2. Where are protons and neutrons located within an atom?
3. Where are electrons located within an atom?
4. What is the overall charge of an atom?
5. What is the atomic number of an element?
6. Explain the concept of energy levels or shells in an atom.
7. How does the number of protons in an atom relate to its identity as a specific element?
8. What is an ion?
9. Describe the differences between an atom and an ion.
10. Why is the study of atoms important in the field of chemistry?

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