Modern Atomic Theory Flashcard 1

Front

What part of the atom is responsible for absorbing or releasing energy?

Back

Electron

Front

What causes the phenomena of colors?

Back

The absorption and emission of light energy by electrons as they move away from and towards the nucleus.

Front

What property of the electron is used to model the atom in modern atomic theory?

Back

The electron is a particle that can behave as a wave.

Front

Define the modern atomic theory.

Back

The modern atomic theory states that atoms are composed of subatomic particles (protons, neutrons, and electrons) and that electrons exist in probabilistic orbitals rather than fixed paths.

Front

What is the role of electrons in chemical bonding?

Back

Electrons, particularly valence electrons, are involved in forming chemical bonds between atoms through sharing (covalent bonds) or transferring (ionic bonds).

Front

Explain the concept of quantized energy levels in atoms.

Back

Electrons in an atom can only occupy specific energy levels, and they must absorb or emit a specific amount of energy to move between these levels.

Front

What is the significance of the wave-particle duality of electrons?

Back

Wave-particle duality means that electrons exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties, which is fundamental to understanding atomic behavior and quantum mechanics.

Front

What is an atomic orbital?

Back

An atomic orbital is a mathematical function that describes the wave-like behavior of an electron in an atom, representing regions where there is a high probability of finding an electron.

Front

What is the difference between the Bohr model and the quantum mechanical model of the atom?

Back

The Bohr model describes electrons in fixed orbits around the nucleus, while the quantum mechanical model describes electrons in terms of probabilities and orbitals.

Front

What is the principle of uncertainty in quantum mechanics?

Back

The principle of uncertainty states that it is impossible to simultaneously know both the exact position and momentum of an electron.