READING THE PERIODIC TABLE

Front

What is the atomic number of an element?

Back

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which also equals the number of electrons in a neutral atom.

Front

What do protons determine in an atom?

Back

Protons determine the identity of an element and its position on the periodic table.

Front

What is the charge of a proton?

Back

A proton has a positive charge.

Front

What is the charge of a neutron?

Back

A neutron has no charge; it is neutral.

Front

What is the charge of an electron?

Back

An electron has a negative charge.

Front

What is the significance of Group 1 elements in the periodic table?

Back

Group 1 elements, also known as alkali metals, have one electron in their outer shell and typically donate that electron to form a +1 charge.

Front

How do you determine the number of neutrons in an atom?

Back

The number of neutrons can be determined by subtracting the atomic number from the atomic mass.

Front

What is the relationship between atomic number and electrons in a neutral atom?

Back

In a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons, which is the atomic number.

Front

What are valence electrons?

Back

Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that are involved in chemical bonding.

Front

What is the periodic table?

Back

The periodic table is a tabular arrangement of elements organized by increasing atomic number, showing periodic trends in properties.