Atoms and Molecules MS-PS1-1

Atom

The smallest particle of an element. Atom. An atom is the basic building block of all matter, making up everything around us.

Covalent bond

A chemical bond formed when atoms share electrons. Covalent bond. A covalent bond is when two atoms share electrons to be stable.

Electron

A negatively charged particle outside the nucleus of an atom. Electron. An electron is a tiny particle that orbits the center nucleus of an atom and carries a negative charge.

Ionic bond

The attraction between oppositely charged ions. Ionic bond. An ionic bond is when atoms stick together because they have opposite charges, like magnets attracting each other.

Molecule

A group of atoms held together by bonds. Molecule. A molecule is a bunch of atoms stuck together that make up everything around us.

Neutron

An uncharged particle in the nucleus of an atom. Neutron. A neutron is a tiny particle in an atom's nucleus that has no electric charge and helps hold the atom together.

Proton

A particle with a positive charge in an atoms nucleus. Proton. A proton is a tiny particle in the center of an atom that has a positive charge and helps make up the nucleus.