Answer: An atom is the basic unit of matter. It is the smallest particle of an element that retains the properties of that element. Atoms are made up of subatomic particles, including protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Explanation:
1. Protons: Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom. They determine the atomic number and identify the element. For example, hydrogen atoms have one proton, while carbon atoms have six protons.
2. Neutrons: Neutrons are particles found in the nucleus of an atom that have no charge. They contribute to the mass of the atom but do not affect its chemical properties. The number of neutrons can vary, giving rise to isotopes of an element.
3. Electrons: Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit around the nucleus of an atom. They are responsible for the chemical behavior of atoms and participate in chemical bonding. The number of electrons in an atom is equal to the number of protons, ensuring that the atom is electrically neutral.
Atoms combine to form molecules and compounds through chemical reactions. The arrangement and interactions of atoms determine the physical and chemical properties of matter. For example, water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, forming a molecule with the chemical formula H2O. The unique properties of water, such as its ability to dissolve substances and its high boiling point, arise from the arrangement and behavior of its constituent atoms. Understanding atoms and their interactions is essential in fields such as chemistry and physics. It allows scientists to explain and predict the behavior of matter and to develop technologies that benefit society, such as medicines, materials, and energy sources.