Learning objective
Describe an atom as a nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons.
Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.
At a glance
0
Flashcards
0
Questions
Topic
Atomic structure
Subtopic
Fundamental particles
Study support
Understand this objective
Quick explanation
Describe an atom as a nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons
- This point belongs to Atomic structure, especially Fundamental particles.
- You need to be able to describe an atom as a nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons.
- The key ideas to know are neutron, proton, and nucleus.
- Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.
Key concepts
Why it matters
This objective helps connect Fundamental particles to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Atomic structure.
Quick student answer
Which of the following statements correctly describes the composition of an atom?
Direct answer
A
Key terms
- Nucleus: The central part of an atom containing protons and neutrons.
- Atomic number: The number of protons in the nucleus, which determines the element.
Common trap
Confusing protons with neutrons: Neutrons are electrically neutral; only protons carry a positive charge.
Related questions
Try this as a practice card
Question 1 of 3
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.
Flashcard prompts
Flip through the key recall cards
Flashcard 1 of 3
Revision tools
Choose how to practise
Flashcards0 linked cards
Practice Questions0 linked questions
Revision notestopic notes
Open the full topic revision notes when you are ready to review this objective in context.
Open revision notesRelated learning objectives
- Explain that scientific understanding of atomic structure has developed over time.
Fundamental particles
- State the relative charge and relative mass of protons, neutrons and electrons.
Fundamental particles
- Use particle properties to compare atoms, ions and isotopes.
Fundamental particles
- Determine the numbers of protons, neutrons and electrons in atoms and ions from mass number, atomic number and charge.
Mass number, isotopes and mass spectrometry
- Explain the existence of isotopes using different neutron numbers.
Mass number, isotopes and mass spectrometry