Question 1: Define a proton and state its charge.

Answer: A proton is a positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Question 2: What is the primary difference between neutrons and protons?

Answer: Neutrons are neutral (no charge), whereas protons are positively charged.

Question 3: Describe the main role of electrons in an atom.

Answer: Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus and determine an atom's chemical properties.

Question 1: An atom has a mass number of 23 and contains 11 protons. How many neutrons does this atom have?

Answer: Mass Number - Protons = Neutrons. 23 - 11 = 12 neutrons.

Question 2: If an atom has 15 protons and 16 neutrons, what is its atomic number and mass number?

Answer: Atomic number = 15 (number of protons). Mass number = 15 + 16 = 31.

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to demonstrate that electrons are negatively charged.

Answer: One common experiment involves passing a stream of electrons through a magnetic field, which deflects their path due to their negative charge, demonstrating their charge.

Question 2: Identify two safety precautions that should be taken when working with radioactive isotopes that contain protons and neutrons.

Answer: Wearing protective gloves and lead shields, and working in a designated radiation-safe area to prevent exposure.

Question 1: A sample of an isotope has an atomic number of 8 and a mass number of 16. How many neutrons does it contain? What element is it?

Answer: Number of neutrons = 16 - 8 = 8. The element is Oxygen.

Question 2: If a neutral atom contains 17 electrons, what is its atomic number and charge?

Answer: Atomic number = 17; charge = neutral (no charge).

Question 1: Explain how the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons determines the identity and stability of an atom. Include how isotopes differ and the significance of atomic number in chemical reactions.

Answer: The number of protons defines the element's identity (atomic number). Neutrons contribute to the isotope form, affecting atomic mass but not chemical properties. Electrons determine the atom's charge and participate in chemical bonding. Isotopes have the same number of protons but different neutrons, leading to variations in atomic mass. The atomic number is crucial in chemical reactions because it determines the element's chemical behavior and reactivity.

Question 1: Explain how knowledge of atomic structure is used in medical imaging techniques such as PET scans.

Answer: PET scans use radioactive isotopes that emit positrons; understanding protons, neutrons, and electrons helps in designing these isotopes for effective imaging.

Question 2: Discuss the importance of atomic structure knowledge in developing new materials like superconductors or nanomaterials.

Answer: Understanding atomic particles allows scientists to manipulate atomic arrangements, leading to the development of advanced materials with specific electrical, magnetic, or structural properties.