Bohr Model Project
Bohr Model Project
Bohr Model Project
http://ut-images.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/c-atom_e.gif
An atom is defined by its atomic number, the number on the periodic table. This indicates
how many protons the atom has. Atoms may have more or less neutrons or electrons, but
an atom of Carbon ALWAYS has 6 protons. That’s what makes it carbon.
Pure elements have a zero charge, because proton number = electron number. The
attraction between the electrons and the protons (plus additional forces) keeps the atom
together.
The drawing above is called the Bohr model, after Niels Bohr who developed it. There are
other more complex models of atoms, but for routine chemistry, the Bohr model works
very well.
http://www.portlandschools.org/CTS/GrantsProjects/driscc/elements/sodium/
sodium.html
Now we are going to make a Bohr model of lithium using a paper plate, string, and puffballs.
Bohr Model - the Bohr model is an approximation of atomic structure, developed by Neils
Bohr. For more information, see:
http://chemistry.about.com/od/atomicstructure/a/bohr-model.htm
Supplies:
Paper plate
Puff balls, 3 colors (here I use purple = electrons, green = neutrons, and yellow = protons)
String
Tape
Glue
Scissors
http://www.webanswers.com/science/chemistry/what-is-the-bohr-model-for-lithium-
04daed
a paper plate or plates are cut into concentric circles: one small one in the middle, and two
in the shape of Os, looking similar to an archer’s target. The small circle is the nucleus and
the Os are electron orbitals.
Figure 1
Two electrons are glued on the smaller O. One electron is glued on the larger O.
Figure 2
The neutrons and protons are glued on the small inner circle to form a 3D nucleus. Note
protons repel, so don’t place them all on the same side if you wish to be realistic.
Figure 3
The parts are attached to each other using string, so that the model can turn in a 3D
fashion.
Figure 4
The model is suspended for all to enjoy.
Figure 5
Name____________________________________________________________________
http://www.ejsong.com/mdme/memmods/MEM30007A/classification/Classification.html
In radioactive elements, like plutonium, the nucleus is unstable because it is too big. Other
radioactive elements have too many protons or neutrons. Carbon-14, a radioactive form of
carbon, has too may neutrons and its nucleus is unstable. This unstable nucleus will
vibrate and contort and attempt to become stable by ejecting particles and giving off
energy. This is radioactive decay giving rise to new elements.
http://www.learner.org/courses/physics/unit/text.html?unit=2&secNum=6
http://www.nuceng.ca/igna/radioactivity.htm
The synthetic elements are radioactive and unstable, so they are made in a lab and are
often only seen for a few minutes. For example, element 118 only lives for less than one
second before it emits particles and decays.
Making new elements requires colliding known elements at high speed to “add” the
protons, neutrons, and electrons together. Below scientists collided two hydrogens to
make a helium.
http://goodcleannovels.com/Novels/ColdFusionChapters.html
Element 118 was made by colliding californium plus calcium. Look on your periodic table.