Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of all matter.
Composed of a nucleus filled with protons and neutrons, and electrons buzzing around the nucleus.
Atoms are mostly empty space.
The term "atom" comes from a Greek word meaning "uncuttable."
Structure of Atoms
Nucleus: Contains protons (positively charged) and neutrons (neutral).
Electrons: Very light, negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus.
The scale of atoms is incredibly small; a million atoms could fit on the head of a pin.
Matter and Molecules
Everything made of atoms is considered matter.
Matter can be broken down into atoms, those atoms combine to form molecules.
Example: Water (H2O) is a molecule consisting of hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
Periodic Table
Elements are substances made of a single kind of atom.
The periodic table organizes elements by the number of protons in the nucleus, known as the atomic number.
Examples of elements: Carbon, Oxygen, Aluminum, Copper.
Chemical Reactions
Atoms combine to form molecules, which can participate in chemical reactions.
Examples of chemical formulas:
H2O (Water)
NaCl (Salt)
C3H5N3O9 (Nitroglycerin)
Experiments and Observations
Demonstration: Mixing water and alcohol shows the space between molecules.
Experiments help understand atomic composition and molecular interactions.
Advanced Concepts
Research into atoms includes understanding protons, neutrons, and quarks inside the atom's nucleus.
Large machines are used to study atomic particles and their behaviors.
Importance of Carbon
Carbon is a key element in organic chemistry, which is essential for life.
It is found in all living organisms and is a significant component of the earth's ecosystem.
Energy and Matter
Everything in the universe is either energy or matter.
Matter is anything made of atoms and molecules; energy includes heat, light, and sound.
Energy is required to modify or interact with matter.
Conclusion
Understanding atoms and molecules is fundamental to the science of chemistry and physics.
This knowledge leads to practical applications in technology and everyday life.
Final Thoughts
Atoms and molecules are fundamental to understanding the composition of everything around us, from the smallest objects to the largest celestial bodies.