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Chapter 2: Problem 22

What is the modern view of the structure of the atom?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The modern view of the structure of an atom is based on the atomic theory, consisting of a central nucleus containing protons and neutrons, and electrons orbiting the nucleus in distinct energy levels or shells. The quantum mechanical model provides a more accurate representation of electron behavior, stating that they exist within a probability distribution called the electron cloud, rather than fixed orbits.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction to the Modern Atomic Theory

The modern view of the structure of an atom is based on the atomic theory, which states that all matter is composed of small, indivisible particles called atoms. Atoms are the smallest units of an element that retain the properties of that element. They are made up of a central nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, and electrons that orbit the nucleus in specific energy levels or shells.
02

The Atomic Nucleus

The nucleus is located at the center of an atom and contains protons and neutrons. Protons are positively charged particles (\(e^{+}\)), and neutrons are neutral particles (having no charge). The number of protons in the nucleus determines the atomic number of an element, which in turn defines the element's chemical properties. The total number of protons and neutrons is called the mass number.
03

Electrons and Energy Levels

Electrons are negatively charged particles (\(e^{-}\)) that orbit the nucleus of an atom in distinct energy levels or electron shells. These energy levels can hold a specific number of electrons: the first shell can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, the second shell can hold up to 8 electrons, and the third shell can hold up to 18 electrons. Electrons fill the shells from the innermost to the outermost, and the outermost shell is called the valence shell.
04

Atomic Models

The modern view of the atomic structure is based on the quantum mechanical model, which provides a more accurate representation of electron behavior within an atom. It states that electrons do not have exact locations but rather exist within a probability distribution called an electron cloud. The electron cloud represents the areas around the nucleus where an electron is most likely to be found. This model replaced the simpler Bohr model, which depicted electrons as moving in circular orbits around the nucleus at fixed distances.
05

Summary

In conclusion, the modern view of the structure of an atom consists of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons that orbit in distinct energy levels or electron shells. The quantum mechanical model describes the behavior of electrons within an atom, stating that they exist within a probability distribution called the electron cloud, providing a more accurate representation of their location and behavior.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Four \(\mathrm{Fe}^{2+}\) ions are key components of hemoglobin, the protein that transports oxygen in the blood. Assuming that these ions are \(^{53} \mathrm{Fe}^{2+}\), how many protons and neutrons are present in each nucleus, and how many electrons are present in each ion?

Why do we call \(\mathrm{Ba}\left(\mathrm{NO}_{3}\right)_{2}\) barium nitrate, but we call \(\mathrm{Fe}\left(\mathrm{NO}_{3}\right)_{2}\) iron(II) nitrate?

In a combustion reaction, \(46.0 \mathrm{~g}\) of ethanol reacts with \(96.0 \mathrm{~g}\) of oxygen to produce water and carbon dioxide. If \(54.0 \mathrm{~g}\) of water is produced, what mass of carbon dioxide is produced?

Which of the following statements is(are) correct? a. The symbols for the elements magnesium, aluminum, and xenon are Mn, Al, and Xe, respectively. b. The elements \(\mathrm{P}, \mathrm{As}\), and \(\mathrm{Bi}\) are in the same family on the periodic table. c. All of the following elements are expected to gain electrons to form ions in ionic compounds: Ga, Se, and \(\mathrm{Br}\). d. The elements Co, \(\mathrm{Ni}\), and \(\mathrm{Hg}\) are all transition elements. e. The correct name for \(\mathrm{TiO}_{2}\) is titanium dioxide.

Which of the following is(are) correct? a. \(4^{40} \mathrm{Ca}^{2+}\) contains 20 protons and 18 electrons. b. Rutherford created the cathode-ray tube and was the founder of the charge- to-mass ratio of an electron. c. An electron is heavier than a proton. d. The nucleus contains protons, neutrons, and electrons.
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