Georgia Standards of Excellence:

SC1. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the use of the modern atomic theory and periodic law to explain the characteristics of atoms and elements. 

       a. Evaluate merits and limitations of different models of the atom in relation to relative size, charge, and position of protons, neutrons, and electrons in the atom. 

      b. Construct an argument to support the claim that the proton (and not the neutron or electron) defines the element’s identity. 

      d. Construct an explanation that relates the relative abundance of isotopes of a particular element to the atomic mass of the element.

Learning Targets:

1.      I can identify evidence that supports the assumption that matter in the universe has a common origin.

2.     I can recognize and understand that all matter on earth and in the universe is composed of the same elements.

3.     I can identify the distribution and abundance of elements in the universe.

4.     I can compare the occurrence of heavier elements on earth and in the universe.

5.     I can identify the Dalton, Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr, and Quantum Mechanical models of the atom and cite experimental evidence for each.

6.     I can identify the limitations of each model.

7.     I can identify and distinguish between subatomic particles based on relative charge, size, and location within the atom.

8.     I can relate the identity of an element to the number of protons within an atom.

9.     I can use the periodic table to find the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in an atom.

10.  I can relate the charge of an atom to the number of electrons and protons.

11.   I can relate the mass of an atom to the number of protons and neutrons.

12.  I can relate the stability of an atom to the ratio of neutrons and protons.

13.  I can identify isotopes as atoms with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

14.  I can determine the most abundant isotope from average atomic mass.

15.  I can calculate average atomic mass given percent abundance and isotopic masses.

16.  I can relate the energy released in nuclear reactions to the strong nuclear force.

17.  I can relate fusion reactions as responsible for all elements larger than Hydrogen.

Podcasts

PhET Simulations

What is an Atom? Activity

Isotopes Activity

Peninsula & Island of Nuclear Stability Resource