Atomic Structure

Atomic Structure Objectives

1. Identify the basic structure of an atom

2. Navigate the Periodic Table of the Elements

3. Describe electron arrangement

4. Understand basic nuclear decay

Objective 1. Identify the basic structure of an atom

Tasks:

• • Read Section 2.1 in your text

  • Watch the course video Atomic Structure

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Identify the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in a given isotope

  • Calculate the average atomic mass of an isotope

Objective 2. Navigate the Periodic Table of the Elements

Tasks:

• • Read Section 2.2 in your text

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Identify the the major groups in the Periodic Table

  • Differentiate between metals, non-metals, and metalloids

Objective 3. Describe electron arrangement:

• • Read Section 2.3 in your text

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Describe electron arrangement in terms of energy levels

  • Differentiate between valence and core electrons

  • Relate valence electrons to periodicity

Objective 4. Describe electron arrangement:

• • Read Section 2.4 in your text

Upon successful completion of this objective, you should be able to:

• • Describe alpha, beta, and gamma decay

  • Write nuclear equations describing nuclear decay

  • Identify and calculate half-lives of radioisotopes