Parts of an atom
An atom contains four basic parts. In the middle of an atom is the nucleus. It is a round structure that contains the protons and neutrons. Circling in orbits around the nucleus several billion times a second are the electrons.
There are an equal number of electrons and protons in an atom.
As shown in this picture, there are 4 protons, so there are 4 electrons in the atom.
Charge It!!
An atom has an electrical charge. The protons, inside the nucleus, have a positive (+) charge. The electrons, circling around the nucleus, have a negative (-) charge. Positive and negative charges are pulled toward each other. This is called attraction. The attraction between the positive protons and the negative electrons is what keeps the electrons circling the nucleus. Without this attraction, the electrons would fly away. The neutrons do not carry a charge and are neutral.
electrons can orbit at many different angles
SUM IT UP!
One: An atom has four main parts. The nucleus is in the middle. The protons and neutrons are inside the nucleus. The electrons circle around the nucleus. There are an equal number of protons and electrons in an atom.
nucleus electrons protons neutrons
Two: Atoms are electrically charged.
structure
charge
proton
positive (+)
electron
negative (-)
neutron
neutral - no charge
back to index
Questions and comments: lcelaya@amphi.com
