Atoms, Elements and Compounds: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

Objective: State the relative charges and relative masses of a proton, a neutron and an electron

This section focuses on the fundamental constituents of matter ÔÇô atoms ÔÇô and their basic properties. We will explore the subatomic particles that make up an atom and their relative charges and masses. Understanding these concepts is crucial for comprehending the periodic table and the behavior of elements.

Subatomic Particles

Atoms are composed of three primary subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Proton

Protons are positively charged particles located in the nucleus of the atom.

• Relative Charge: +1
• Relative Mass: Approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu)

Neutron

Neutrons are electrically neutral particles found in the nucleus of the atom.

• Relative Charge: 0
• Relative Mass: Approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu)

Electron

Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of the atom in specific energy levels or shells.

• Relative Charge: -1
• Relative Mass: Approximately 1/1836 amu

Summary Table

Note: Atomic mass units (amu) are used to compare the masses of atoms and molecules. The mass of a proton and a neutron are very similar, so they are often considered to have the same mass for practical purposes.

Further Learning

Understanding the relative charges and masses of these particles is a foundational step towards understanding atomic structure, isotopes, and the periodic table. This knowledge will be further developed in subsequent sections.