Atoms and Elements
Grade 7 · Science · Chemistry of Life · Vermont, USA
Lesson Summary
Learn that all matter is made of tiny particles called atoms, and elements are pure substances made of one type of atom.
Explanation
An atom is the smallest unit of matter that still has the properties of an element. Each atom has a nucleus containing protons (positive charge) and neutrons (no charge), surrounded by electrons (negative charge) that orbit the nucleus. An element is a substance made of only one kind of atom—for example, gold is made entirely of gold atoms. There are over 100 known elements, and they are the building blocks of everything in the universe.
Practice Questions
Q1: What three particles make up an atom?
Answer: Protons (positive charge) and neutrons (no charge) in the nucleus, and electrons (negative charge) orbiting the nucleus.
Q2: What makes one element different from another?
Answer: The number of protons in the nucleus. Each element has a unique number of protons called its atomic number.
Q3: Is water an element? Why or why not?
Answer: No. Water is made of two different kinds of atoms (hydrogen and oxygen), so it is a compound, not an element.
People Also Ask
What is Atoms and Elements in Grade 7 Science?+
Atoms and Elements is a lesson in the Chemistry of Life chapter of Grade 7 Science. It is part of the Vermont, USA school curriculum and covers key concepts that students need to understand at this level.
What grade level covers Atoms and Elements?+
Atoms and Elements is taught in Grade 7 as part of the Science curriculum in Vermont, USA.
How can I help my child with Chemistry of Life in Science?+
Start with the lesson summary and explanation on this page. Practice the questions provided, then use TutorTom for personalized, step-by-step help with Chemistry of Life topics.