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Chemistry

Atomic Structure

Key Points

  • Atom: protons (positive) + neutrons (neutral) in nucleus; electrons (negative) in shells
  • Atomic number = number of protons
  • Mass number = protons + neutrons
  • Isotopes: same atomic number, different mass numbers
  • Electronic configuration: 2, 8, 8, 18... (shells)

Detailed Notes

Atomic structure is fundamental to all of chemistry. Know the properties of subatomic particles. Understand electronic configuration and how it determines chemical properties. Isotopes have the same number of protons but different neutrons — they have the same chemical properties but different physical properties. Radioactivity: alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ) radiation.

Key Formulas & Facts

Mass Number
A = Z + N (protons + neutrons)
Atomic Number
Z = number of protons