Atoms and Interactions
Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter - everything is made up of atoms. Atoms interact with each other in various ways, such as through chemical bonds, electrical charges, and nuclear forces. These interactions allow atoms to form molecules, which are the foundation for all life and matter on Earth.
Atoms and their interactions
Atom: The smallest unit of matter that has all the properties of an element.
Ion: An atom or group of atoms that has a positive or negative electrical charge.
Bond: The physical interaction between atoms that hold atoms together in a molecule or compound.
Did you know?
The probability an atom will interact with another atom is incredibly low, as atoms are mostly empty space and consist of a nucleus surrounded by electrons. Atoms can form different types of bonds with each other, such as ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds. The most abundant atoms in the universe are hydrogen and helium, making up over 98% of the total atoms in the universe.
Work together in pairs: What is the difference between an ionic bond and a covalent bond, and how do they affect the interactions between atoms?
How do atoms interact with each other to form compounds?
Work together in pairs: What is the difference between an atom and a molecule?
Brain break: Draw a monster with floating heads and upside-down feet
What is the smallest unit of matter?
Which subatomic particle carries a positive charge?
What is the central part of an atom called?
- Electron Cloud
- Proton
- Nucleus
Which subatomic particle has no charge?
Which force holds the protons and neutrons together in an atom's nucleus?
- Strong Nuclear Force
- Gravitational Force
- Weak Nuclear Force