Pre-Lab 14A: Atomic Structure

Purpose We once believed that atoms were the smallest units of matter. Then it was discovered that there are even smaller particles inside atoms! The structure of the atom explains why nearly all the properties of matter we experience are what they are. This investigation will lead you through some challenging and fun games that illustrate how atoms are built from protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Key Question What is inside an atom?

Background Define: use 3-4 attributes for each, no less!: Proton Neutron electron

Drawing Draw the Li atom model AND the entire Li box:

Section 1: In the atom game, colored marbles represent the three kinds of particles. - Red marbles are protons, - blue marbles are neutrons, - yellow marbles are electrons. Create the model asked for, then call Mr. Speich to check/sign the model Read it; So, what do these mean: Li, 3, 6, 7 ? don’t do this question on the lab write-up

Section 3: BUILD the 6 atoms on the chart, Remember, all charts need a title Fill in the missing data on the chart: USE NUMBERS, NOT DOTS Call me to your lab station to show me each model and sign your lab data chart for each model!

Post Lab 14A: Atomic Structure

Purpose We once believed that atoms were the smallest units of matter. Then it was discovered that there are even smaller particles inside atoms! The structure of the atom explains why nearly all the properties of matter we experience are what they are. This investigation will lead you through some challenging and fun games that illustrate how atoms are built from protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Key Question What is inside an atom?

Background Define: Proton Neutron electron

-What is the number below the element symbol? -What does this number tell you about the atom? -What is the number (s) above the element symbol called? -Why do some elements have more than one number above the symbol? - What are the variations in this number called?

Which atom had an atomic number of 8? Two of the atoms you made were the same element. What was different about them? One of the atoms had just enough electrons to completely fill the first two levels. Which atom was this? Where on the periodic table is it found? Which atom had an atomic number of 8? Which atom had a mass number of 13? One atom is found in a lightweight, silvery metal used in airplanes. Which atom was it? One atom is found in an element that makes up about 21% of the air you breathe. You could not live without this element.