GCSE · Chemistry · AQA · Spec 8462
Subatomic particles and atomic number
Relationship matrix
Tap any cell to reveal it. Tap a column header to read one property down every item.
Each cell hides a short answer and the reason behind it. Predict before you tap.
Why atoms are neutral
Reason it through
Why does an atom have no overall electrical charge?
First link · your turn
Which two particles carry opposite electrical charges?
From proton count to element
Follow the proton number; it is the identifying number.
- Count the protonsThe proton count is the starting information because atomic number is defined by the number of protons.
- Read the atomic numberThe number of protons is the atom's atomic number, so the two values are the same.
- Identify samenessAtoms with the same proton number are atoms of the same element because all atoms of one element share that proton number.
- Spot a different elementA different proton number means a different atomic number and therefore a different element.
Predict, then check
Use both atomic number and charge balance.
An atom has 11 protons and 11 electrons. Which description must be correct?
WHAT YOU'VE LEARNED
A quick recap of today's lesson.
Connect particle charge, the nuclear model and proton number to see what defines an element.
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