Information on Atoms

Atoms are the foundations for molecules. The atoms within a compound decide its reactions and interaction with the environment. Atoms are arranged by charge, size and electrons in the periodic table. Each atom has its own number of protons, electrons and neutrons that decide its number on the periodic table.

Electrons

Electrons are one of the smallest parts of the atom. They carry a negative electric charge, and circle the atom in a shell. Electrons covalently bond with other atoms.

Protons

Protons are much larger than electrons. Protons carry a positive charge. These elements of the atom are included within the nucleus. They are not included in bonding, but they are a part of the atomic number of an atom.

Neutrons

Neutrons hold no charge, and they are found in the nucleus of the atom. These particles are slightly heavier than the proton. Neutrons are a part of an atom's isotope.

Isotopes

Isotopes are atoms that are the same element, but they have a different number of neutrons. For instance, carbon 14 is an isotope with more neutrons.

Bonds

Two types of bonds can happen between atoms. An ionic bond is one in which two opposite charges combine. For instance, sodium and chlorine combine in an ionic bond to form salt. Covalent bonds are two atoms that share electrons. An example is carbon and oxygen.

References

• Cuny.edu; Atomic Structure