The Nucleus and Electron Structure Flashcards

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What is the nucleus of an atom?

The nucleus is the tiny, dense centre of the atom that contains protons and neutrons.

Where in an atom are protons and neutrons found?

Protons and neutrons are found together in the nucleus at the centre of the atom.

Where in an atom are electrons found?

Electrons move around the nucleus in electron shells, which are regions outside the nucleus.

What is the overall electrical charge of the nucleus, and why?

The nucleus is positively charged because it contains positively charged protons and neutral neutrons.

Where is most of the mass of an atom found?

Almost all the mass of an atom is in its nucleus, in the protons and neutrons.

Why is a whole atom usually neutral (has no overall charge)?

Because it has the same number of protons and electrons, so the positive and negative charges balance.

What name is given to the fixed energy levels where electrons move around the nucleus?

They are called electron shells, or energy levels.

How are electrons arranged around the nucleus?

Electrons are arranged in shells at different distances from the nucleus.

What force keeps electrons close to the nucleus?

The attraction between the positive nucleus and the negative electrons keeps them close.

Compared with the whole atom, how big is the nucleus?

The nucleus is extremely small compared with the atom; most of the atom is empty space.