IGCSE Chemistry – Chapter 3: Atomic Structure and Bonding
Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Total Marks: 80
Instructions:
- Attempt all questions.
- Use diagrams and equations wherever necessary.
- Show full working for calculations.
Section A: Inside Atoms (20 marks)
Question 1
Name the three subatomic particles in an atom. For each, state: [3
- Its location in the atom mark
- Its relative charge s]
- Its relative mass
Table 3.1 – Characteristics of a proton, neutron and electron:
| Particle | Symbol | Relative mass / amu | Relative charge |
|----------|--------|----------------------|------------------|
| Proton | p | 1 | +1 |
| Neutron | n | 1 |0 |
| Electron | e | 1/1836 | –1 |
Question 2
What is the role of the nucleus in an atom? Mention its size, density, and what it [2
contains. marks
]
Question 3
Define: [2
a. Proton number (Z) mark
b. Nucleon number (A) s]
Question 4
A helium atom contains 2 protons and 2 neutrons. [3
a. What is its nucleon number? mark
b. Write its nuclear symbol. s]
c. How many electrons does it have?
Question 5
Complete the table: [3
| Element | Proton Number (Z) | Nucleon Number (A) | Neutrons | Electrons | marks
|---------------|------------------|--------------------|----------|-----------| ]
| Magnesium-24 | 12 |? |? |? |
| Potassium-39 | ? | 39 | 20 |? |
Question 6
Why are atoms electrically neutral despite having charged particles? [2
marks
]
Question 7
What force keeps electrons in their shells? Explain in terms of charge [3
attraction. marks]