AP Chemistry Study Guide – Chapter 2: Atoms, Molecules, and Ions
2.1 Early Atomic Theory
- Dalton’s Atomic Theory: Elements are made of atoms, identical for each element, and
rearranged in reactions.
2.2 Evolution of Atomic Theory
- Thomson: Electron discovery.
- Millikan: Electron charge.
- Rutherford: Dense nucleus.
- Chadwick: Neutrons.
- Isotopes: Same protons, different neutrons.
2.3 Atomic Structure & Symbolism
- Atomic number = protons.
- Mass number = protons + neutrons.
- Isotopes differ in mass, not in atomic number.
- Average atomic mass is weighted based on isotope abundance.
2.4 Chemical Formulas
- Molecular: Exact atom count (e.g., H₂O).
- Empirical: Simplest ratio (e.g., CH₂O).
- Structural: Shows bond arrangement.
- Isomers: Same formula, different structures.
2.5 Periodic Table
- Organized by atomic number.
- Groups: columns; Periods: rows.
- Metals, metalloids, nonmetals.
- Special groups: alkali metals, halogens, noble gases.
2.6 Ionic vs. Molecular Compounds
- Ionic: Metal + nonmetal. Transfer electrons.
- Molecular: Nonmetal + nonmetal. Share electrons.
2.7 Chemical Nomenclature
- Ionic: Name + ide; use Roman numerals.
- Polyatomic: Common names (e.g., nitrate).
- Molecular: Prefixes (mono-, di-).
- Acids: Binary (HCl = hydrochloric), Oxyacids (H₂SO₄ = sulfuric).
Learning Objectives
Trace atomic theory development.
Compare subatomic particles.
Interpret formulas and atomic structures.
Use the periodic table.
Name ionic and molecular compounds and acids.
Key Terms
Atom, element, compound, molecule, isotope
Atomic number, mass number, amu
Empirical/molecular/structural formula, isomer
Cation, anion, ionic compound, covalent compound, polyatomic ion
Alkali metals, halogens, noble gases
Nomenclature, prefixes, acid naming
Practice Problems
1. 1. Determine protons, neutrons, electrons in ³⁵Cl.
2. 2. Calculate average atomic mass of carbon from isotope abundance.
3. 3. Give empirical formula of C₆H₁₂O₆.
4. 4. Classify and name: BeCl₂, PCl₃, N₂O₅, HCl, H₂CO₃.
5. 5. Name Fe₂O₃ and CO. Draw Lewis structures.