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What is the significance of an electron’s speed in maintaining its orbit?
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An electron's speed keeps it from falling into the nucleus, balanced by the perpendicular attraction from protons.
Explain how periodic table representation helps understand atomic structure.
The periodic table shows atomic numbers (protons) and mass numbers (protons plus neutrons), aiding in understanding atomic structure.
In terms of mass distribution, where is the majority of an atom's mass located?
The majority of an atom's mass is located in the nucleus due to the presence of protons and neutrons.
How does the electrostatic force affect particles within an atom?
The electrostatic force causes opposite charges to attract, such as the attraction between protons and electrons.
Describe what is meant by atomic mass units and its significance.
Atomic mass units are used to express the mass of protons and neutrons, approximately 1 atomic mass unit each, while electrons are much lighter.
Describe the difference between an atom and an ion in terms of charge.
Atoms are electrically neutral with equal protons and electrons; ions have unequal numbers, resulting in a net positive or negative charge.
How does the mass of neutrons compare to protons?
Neutrons have a slightly greater mass than protons.
What happens to an atom's charge when it becomes an ion?
An atom becomes an ion and carries a charged state when it has an unequal number of protons and electrons.
Why is an atom largely considered as empty space?
Atoms are mostly empty space, allowing high-energy particles to pass through because the nucleus occupies little volume compared to the electron cloud.
How does the atomic number of an element relate to its structure?
The atomic number signifies the number of protons in the nucleus, defining the element's identity.
Explain the concept of electron capture in terms of atomic structure.
Electron capture occurs when an electron falls into the nucleus, changing the chemical identity of the element.
What is the net charge of an ion with 12 protons and 9 electrons?
The net charge is +3, since there are 3 more protons than electrons.
What particles are primarily responsible for the mass of an atom?
Protons and neutrons are primarily responsible for the mass of an atom.
Define ions and describe the difference between cations and anions.
Ions are atoms with unequal numbers of protons and electrons. Cations are positively charged ions, while anions are negatively charged.
What is the role of the strong nuclear force in an atomic nucleus?
The strong nuclear force holds protons together in the nucleus, overcoming their electrostatic repulsion.
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