Atomic Structure and Forces Activity

Introduction
The periodic table provides a wealth of knowledge about every known element. From the table,
you can learn about an element’s physical and chemical properties, such as its available
valence electrons or reactivity with other elements. Using terminology and information from the
lesson, you will conduct an “interview” with an element and publish what you discover about its
properties and bonding capabilities.
Procedures:
1. Choose an element from the periodic table to interview.
2. Conduct research on your element. Use the following as a guide for the kind of
information you need to learn about your element to successfully complete
the assignment.

a. Atomic number
b. Atomic mass

c. Symbol

d. Number of subatomic particles

e. Its position on the periodic table and its chemical properties based on that
position

f. Typical compounds formed by your element

g. The history of your element's discovery

h. Five uses for your element or its common compounds

i. Where your element or its compounds can be found in the real world

j. At least one photo or drawing of your element

3. Arrange the information into a coherent interview that consists of an introduction

followed by alternating questions (to the element) and answers (from the element).
4. Use a magazine layout or similar format to present the interview. You may choose to
complete the layout of the project with art supplies or using a computer or online
resource.

5. Be sure the work is your own and you include citations for each of the resources
included.

6. Conclude with a summary paragraph that answers your reflection questions.

(Use the student sample as a guide on format only. It does not include the full content required
for the activity.)

Reflection Questions
1. Summarize the physical and chemical properties of the element you selected.
2. In the lesson, many models were used to depict the atom. How did these models help
you understand atomic structure?

3. How do protons, neutrons, and electrons differ in terms of their electrical charges and
locations within the atom?

4. Describe the four fundamental forces. Which of these forces are involved in chemical
bonding?