Investigating the Structure of an Atom

Investigating the Structure of an Atom

Name: Date: Class:

____________________________________________________________________________
Follow the instructions to go through the “Build An Atom” simulation.
Answer the questions in the space provided.

Introduction

In the Build an Atom simulation, you’ll explore the basic structure of the atom. You will
use the Build an Atom simulation to draw models, answer questions, and make
predictions about atoms.

Part 1: Matter and Atoms

Do this part before using the simulation.

Write a scientific question you would like to explore about atoms.

Prior Knowledge Questions

1. Define matter. Give three examples of matter. Give three non-examples of matter.

2. What does all matter have in common?

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 Investigating the Structure of an Atom

Name: Date: Class:

____________________________________________________________________________

Part 2: Navigating the Simulation

Explore how to navigate the simulation by clicking through the hotspots on slide 2. After
exploring the settings, answer the question that follows.

Predict Draw a picture of how you would build your atom. The atom should have 9
protons, 10 neutrons, and 9 electrons.

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 Investigating the Structure of an Atom

Name: Date: Class:

____________________________________________________________________________

Part 3: Parts of an Atom

Follow the instructions below the simulation. Answer the questions in the
space provided.

1. Atoms are made up of three particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. Add 2
protons, 2 neutrons, and 2 electrons to the atom.

a. Which particle(s) are located in the center of the atom?

b. Which particle(s) are located in the space that surrounds the center of the
atom?

c. What is the name of this atom?

d. Draw the atom that you have built. Label its parts.

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 Investigating the Structure of an Atom

Name: Date: Class:

____________________________________________________________________________

Part 4: Charge of an Atom

Follow the instructions below the simulation. Answer the questions in the
space provided.
1. Complete the data table.

Number of Number of Number of Charge

protons neutrons electrons

Task 1

Task 2

Task 3

Task 4

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 Investigating the Structure of an Atom

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2. Conclude What particle determines whether an atom is electrically charged or

neutral?

3. Analyze Neutrons are electrically neutral particles. Protons and electrons are
electrically charged particles. From your observations, analyze which particle is
positively charged and which particle is negatively charged.

4. Design Atoms have no overall charge, they are neutral. An ion is an atom that has
a negative or a positive charge. In this activity, you will design an ion. You will use
the simulation to validate your drawing and answer the questions that follow.

Design an ion with a charge of +3.

Show your drawing.
Number of
protons

Number of
neutrons

Number of
electrons

a. In an atom, electrons can be found in energy levels. How many maximum

electrons does the first energy level hold?

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 Investigating the Structure of an Atom

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b. What is the name of your ion?

c. Note that the identity of the ion should not change. What should you do to
change your ion into a neutral atom?

d. What is structurally different between an atom and an ion?

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