Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter, consisting of three main parts:
Structure
1. *Protons*: Positively charged particles in the nucleus (center).
2. *Neutrons*: Particles with no charge in the nucleus.
3. *Electrons*: Negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus.
Key Characteristics
1. *Atomic number*: Number of protons defines the element.
2. *Mass number*: Total number of protons and neutrons.
3. *Chemical properties*: Determined by the number of electrons.
Importance of Atoms
1. *Fundamental units*: Atoms combine to form molecules and compounds.
2. *Chemical reactions*: Atoms interact and bond with each other.
3. *Basis of matter*: Atoms make up everything around us.
Atoms are the foundation of chemistry and physics, and understanding them helps us grasp the world of
matter and energy!