What's the Matter? Locating Electrons in an Atom

In this atom instructional activity, chemists learn how to determine the number of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom using the atomic mass and atomic number. They complete a chart of the subatomic particles and use marbles to...

Lead the class on an investigation as they play detective and locate patterns in the electron arrangement of atoms. During the seventh lesson, they assign valence numbers to elements, organize the periodic table in the correct sequence,...

Four diagrams of the atom and their subatomic particles and structures are given here and students should be able to complete the labels need to define the structures shown. The main structures defined are protons, neutrons, electrons,...

This space is reserved for matter. After finding the density of a foam ball, young scientists predict the density of a larger ball. When they encounter a discrepant event, they must theorize an explanation. These concepts are linked to...

Through discussion and viewing videos, pupils begin to see how atoms form covalent bonds. Then they draw the covalent bonds between given molecules to show their understanding. 

Learners see how electrons are transferred in the bonding of NaCl. They then create models of NaCl using styrofoam balls and toothpicks to assist them in explaining the formation of ions and ionic bonding. 

This is a tremendous overview of the tiny atom. Journey through the history of human understanding of this basic building block of matter. Examine each of the sub-atomic particles in detail: neutrons, protons, electrons, quarks. Peruse...

What will happen if you put the elements sodium and chlorine together? Sal answers this question, and others like it, in this video on valence electrons. The presence of electrons in an element's outer shell determines which element will...

Young mathematical scientists interact with protons and electrons in an atom to create a neutrally charged atom. They answer questions based on their findings throughout the interactive resource.

What's smaller than a kiwi seed? Atoms! Basic atomic structure is detailed for beginning chemists in a light-hearted animation. Protons and neutrons are explained as part of the nucleus, and so are electrons that encircle the nucleus....