The Structure and Behavior of Electrons in Atoms

Electrons are tiny particles, much smaller than protons and neutrons, with a negative charge. In neutral atoms, the number of electrons equals the number of protons. Electrons move rapidly around the nucleus, forming an electron cloud. This cloud is similar to bees swarming a hive. Electrons are confined to specific energy levels within the cloud. Low-energy electrons are closer to the nucleus, while high-energy electrons are farther away. The arrangement of electrons in these energy levels is crucial for determining how atoms interact with each other.

How does the mass of an electron compare to that of a proton or neutron?

• Electrons are heavier than protons.

• Electrons are twice the mass of a neutron.

• Electrons are approximately 1/2,000 the mass of a proton or neutron.

• Electrons are about the same mass as protons.

What is the charge of an electron?

• Positive

• Neutral

• Negative

• Variable

What term do scientists use to describe the space where electrons are likely to be found?

• Electron zone

• Electron cloud

• Electron field

• Electron orbit

Where are electrons with low energy typically located?

• In the middle of the atom

• Close to the nucleus

• Far from the nucleus

• In the outermost shell

Why is the arrangement of electrons in energy levels important?

• It alters the atom's temperature.

• It determines the color of the atom.

• It affects how an atom will interact with other atoms.

• It changes the atom's mass.