Building An Atom-2
Building An Atom-2
Building An Atom-2
Website: https://phet.colorado.edu/sims/html/build-an-atom/latest/build-an-atom_en.html
Introduction:
What is an atom?
An atom is the basic unit of matter. It is the smallest particle of an element that retains the chemical
properties of that element. Atoms consist of a nucleus, which contains positively charged protons and
uncharged neutrons, as well as negatively charged electrons that orbit the nucleus.
Some of the scientists involved in discovering the atom include John Dalton, J.J. Thomson, Ernest
Rutherford, Niels Bohr, and James Chadwick.
Hypothesis:
Predict how the addition of subatomic particles will affect the structure and properties of an atom.
(Example: I predict that adding more neutrons will affect . . .)
The addition of subatomic particles can affect the structure and properties of an atom in various ways.
For example, adding protons to an atom will increase its atomic number and change its identity to a
different element. This can result in different chemical properties and reactivity. Adding neutrons can
change the stability of the atom and its isotopic composition. It can also affect the atom's mass and
nuclear properties. Adding electrons can change the atom's charge and its behavior in chemical
reactions. Overall, the addition of subatomic particles can have significant impacts on the structure and
properties of an atom.
Procedure:
In the atom building simulator, select the first choice, labeled “Atom”. Select “orbits” as the model.
Then click the “+” next to Net Charge and Mass Number to open both of those windows.
To build an atom, click and drag protons, neutrons, and electrons and place them into the atom. You
need to build 4 different atoms and record the data in the table below. Make sure to have at least one
positive atom, one negative atom, and one neutral atom in your table.
You may need to do additional experimenting to answer the analysis questions so keep the simulation
open until you have completed the assignment.
Data:
Atom Element Protons Neutrons Electrons Net Charge Mass Number
1 Hydrogen 1 2 1 0 3
2 helium 2 2 1 +1 4
3 lituim 3 4 2 +1 6
4 beyruim 4 3 2 +2 7