THE STRUCTURE OF ATOM
Welcome to an exploration of the atom, the fundamental building block of
all matter. In this presentation, we will journey into the heart of these
incredibly tiny particles, uncovering their structure and the key components
that define them. Get ready to understand the invisible world that shapes
everything around us.
The Subatomic Trio: Protons, Neutrons, and Electrons
All matter is built from tiny building blocks called atoms.
Each atom belongs to a specific element, making it unique
and different from atoms of other elements. Inside every
atom are even smaller particles known as protons,
neutrons, and electrons. Protons carry a positive charge
and, along with neutrons which have no charge, sit tightly
packed in the atom’s nucleus at the center. Electrons, much
lighter and carrying a negative charge, move rapidly around
the nucleus. Though an electron’s mass is only about 1/1840
of a proton or neutron, it plays a huge role in chemical
reactions and bonding. Together, these sub-atomic particles
give atoms their structure and make up everything we see
around us.
Protons
Positively charged particles (+1) located in the nucleus. They are relatively heavy.
Neutrons
Neutrally charged particles (0) also found in the nucleus. They have a mass similar
to protons.
Electrons
Negatively charged particles (-1) that orbit the nucleus in electron shells. They are
extremely light.
Particle Properties at a Glance
To better appreciate the distinct roles of each subatomic particle, let's compare their key characteristics: charge, relative mass, and location within the ato
Relative Charge Relative Mass (amu)
This chart clearly illustrates the relative charge and mass of each particle, highlighting why protons and neutrons contribute most to an atom's mass, while electrons de
Defining an Element: Atomic Number (Z)
An element's identity is solely determined by the number of
protons in its nucleus. This crucial count is known as the
atomic number, symbolised by 'Z'. Every atom of a specific
element will always have the same atomic number.
Hydrogen (H)
Z = 1 (1 proton)
Helium (He)
Z = 2 (2 protons)
Carbon (C)
Z = 6 (6 protons)
The atomic number is fundamental to the periodic table, where
elements are arranged in increasing order of their atomic
numbers.
Mass Number (A): Nucleons in
the Nucleus
While the atomic number defines the element, the mass number,
symbolised by 'A', tells us the total number of protons and neutrons
(collectively called nucleons) in an atom's nucleus. It essentially represents
the atom's approximate mass.
Protons
Positive charge, define element Protons, neutrons, and electrons are
different in charge, mass, and position
Neutrons in the atom. Protons have a positive
Neutral charge, add mass
charge, neutrons have no charge,
and electrons have a negative
charge. Protons and neutrons are
Mass Number (A)
found in the nucleus, while electrons
Total nucleons in nucleus orbit around it. Electrons are much
lighter than both protons and
neutrons.
Understanding Isotopes : The Atomic Variations
Isotopes are atoms of the same element with the
same number of protons but different numbers of
neutrons. This gives them different mass numbers.
Some isotopes are stable, while others are
radioactive and used in medicine and science.
Same Element, Different Mass
Isotopes are chemically identical but have slightly different physical properties due to mass variation.
Stability
Some isotopes are stable, while others are radioactive and decay over time.
Isotopes in Action: Carbon-12 vs. Carbon-14
Carbon provides an excellent example of isotopes, with Carbon-12 and Carbon-14 being two of its most significant forms. Both are carbon, but their neutron
Carbon-12 (12C) Carbon-14 (14C)
A carbon
This is the most common and stable isotope of carbon, making up about 98.9% of all naturally
on occurring
Earth. but rare and radioactive isotope, crucial for radiocarbon d
• Protons: 6 • Protons: 6
• Neutrons: 6 • Neutrons: 8
• Mass Number: 12` • Mass Number: 14
Real-World Applications of
Isotopes
Isotopes aren't just theoretical concepts; they have profound practical
applications in various fields, from archaeology to medicine and energy
production.
Radiocarbon Dating Medical Diagnostics
Carbon-14's predictable decay allows Radioactive isotopes like Technetium-
scientists to determine the age of 99m are used in medical imaging
ancient artefacts and fossils. (e.g., PET scans) to diagnose
diseases.
Nuclear Energy
Uranium-235 is a key isotope used as
fuel in nuclear power plants due to its
fissile properties.
Summary: Key Takeaways of
Atomic Structure
Let's consolidate the crucial information we've covered about the atom's
fundamental structure and its components.
1 Subatomic Particles
Atoms consist of protons (positive, in nucleus), neutrons (neutral, in
nucleus), and electrons (negative, orbiting nucleus).
2 Atomic Number (Z)
The number of protons defines the element's identity and atomic number (Z).
3 Mass Number (A)
The sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus gives the mass number (A).
4 Isotopes
Atoms of the same element with differing numbers of neutrons are called isotopes.
Isotopes: Unpacking Similarities and Differences
Similarities: Shared Identity 1
Isotopes of an element possess an identical number of
protons, defining their atomic number and chemical
behaviour. 2 Differences: Mass Variation
• Same element
They vary in neutron count, leading to distinct mass
• Identical chemical properties numbers and subtle differences in physical properties.
• Similar electron configuration • Different number of neutrons
• Varying atomic mass
• Distinct nuclear stability
Unveiling the Atomic
Universe: A Journey into
Elements
Welcome to an exploration of the fundamental building blocks of matter.
This presentation will guide you through the intricate world of atoms, their
arrangement, and how this structure dictates the properties and
organisation of all known elements within the Periodic Table. Prepare to
uncover the secrets that govern the universe around us.
The Anatomy of an Atom: Particles and Their Places
At the heart of everything is the atom, an incredibly
small but complex entity. It comprises a dense
central nucleus, containing positively charged
protons and neutral neutrons, surrounded by
negatively charged electrons. These electrons are
not randomly scattered but exist in specific regions
called electron shells, each corresponding to a
distinct energy level.
Imagine these shells as orbital pathways, much like
planets orbiting a star. Electrons occupy the lowest
available energy levels first, filling shells
sequentially. The outermost shell, known as the
valence shell, is particularly important as it dictates
an atom's chemical reactivity.
Electron Distribution: Filling the First 20 Elements
Understanding how electrons populate these shells is crucial for comprehending chemical behaviour. The first shell can hold a
maximum of 2 electrons, the second 8, and the third up to 18, though for the first 20 elements, the third shell behaves as if it holds
8 electrons before the fourth shell begins to fill. This predictable filling order, known as the electronic configuration, determines an
element's position in the Periodic Table.
Hydrogen (H) Helium (He) Lithium (Li)
1 electron: [1] 2 electrons: [2] 3 electrons: [2, 1]
Neon (Ne) Sodium (Na) Argon (Ar)
10 electrons: [2, 8] 11 electrons: [2, 8, 1] 18 electrons: [2, 8, 8]
Calcium (Ca)
20 electrons: [2, 8, 8, 2]
This systematic arrangement explains why elements in the same group often share similar chemical properties.
Introducing the Periodic Table:
Your Guide to Elements
The Periodic Table is one of the most powerful tools in chemistry, organising
all known elements based on their atomic number and recurring chemical
properties. It’s a remarkable testament to human curiosity and scientific
discovery, providing a framework for understanding the behaviour of matter.
Each element has a unique symbol, atomic number (number of protons),
and atomic mass. The table is structured into rows called periods and
columns called groups, each telling us something fundamental about the
elements within.
Groups and Periods: Navigating the Table
Groups (Columns) Periods (Rows)
Vertical columns are called groups. Elements within the same Horizontal rows are periods. The period number corresponds to
group share similar chemical properties because they have the the number of occupied electron shells an atom has. As you
same number of valence electrons. For instance, Group 1 move across a period, the atomic number increases, and the
elements are all highly reactive metals. properties of the elements change gradually.
Valence Electrons Electron Shells
Dictate chemical behaviour. Indicated by the period number.
Similar Reactivity Gradual Property Change
Characteristic of elements in a group. Observed across a period.
Metals and Non-Metals: The Great Divide
Metals Non-Metals
Located predominantly on the left and centre of the Periodic Table, metals are Found on the right side of the table, non-metals are generally dull, brittle,
typically shiny, ductile, malleable, and excellent conductors of heat and and poor conductors of heat and electricity. They tend to gain or share
electricity. They tend to lose electrons in chemical reactions, forming positive electrons in chemical reactions. Examples include oxygen, nitrogen, and
ions. Examples include iron, copper, and gold. carbon.
A diagonal "staircase" line separates metals from non-metals, with metalloids (elements with properties of both) lying along this line.
Group 1: The Alkali Metals
Group 1 elements, known as the alkali metals, are highly reactive metals. They have only one valence electron, which they readily
lose to form a positive ion with a +1 charge. This makes them very eager to react with other elements.
Highly Reactive
Explosively react with water.
Soft & Low Density
Can be cut with a knife; float on water.
Low Melting Points
Melt at relatively low temperatures.
Form Ionic Compounds
React with non-metals to form salts.
Real-world application: Lithium is used in batteries for mobile phones and electric vehicles due to its high energy density.
Group 7: The Halogens
Group 7 elements, the halogens, are highly reactive non-metals. They have seven valence electrons and tend to gain one electron
to achieve a stable electron configuration, forming a negative ion with a -1 charge. Their reactivity decreases down the group.
Varying Physical States
Exist as Diatomic Molecules
Fluorine (gas), Chlorine (gas), Bromine
e.g., F2, Cl2, Br2, I2.
(liquid), Iodine (solid).
Strong Oxidising Agents Poisonous and Corrosive
Readily accept electrons in reactions. Handle with extreme care.
Real-world application: Chlorine is extensively used in water purification and as a disinfectant.
Group 0: The Noble Gases
Group 0 elements, also known as the noble gases, are unreactive non-metals. They have a full outermost electron shell (either 2 or
8 valence electrons), making them incredibly stable and reluctant to gain, lose, or share electrons. This stability is why they are
called "noble" – they don't easily associate with other elements.
0% 100%
Reactivity Stability
Extremely low reactivity. Full valence electron shells.
0% 100%
Compound Formation Applications
Rarely form chemical compounds. Used where inertness is required.
Real-world application: Neon is famously used in bright, colourful advertising signs because it glows when an electric current passes
through it. Argon is used in light bulbs to prevent the filament from burning out.
Conclusion: Atomic Structure
and the Periodic Table's
Harmony
Our journey through the atomic universe reveals a profound connection: the
structure of an atom, particularly the arrangement of its electrons, directly
dictates its chemical properties and, consequently, its position in the
Periodic Table.
The number of electron shells determines the period, while the number of
valence electrons determines the group and thus the element's reactivity.
This elegant system allows us to predict and understand the behaviour of all
elements, from the explosive alkali metals to the inert noble gases.
Understanding this fundamental relationship is key to unlocking further
mysteries in chemistry.
THANK YOU
PRESENTED BY :ABDUL HANNAN SALMAN
ALS DNK
