Atomic Structure And Electrons - Structure Of An Atom - What Are Atoms - Neutrons Protons Electrons

Atoms are the basic units of chemical elements with a simple structural design. They feature a nucleus that harbors subatomic particles, while electrons orbit this central region. The explanation provides a clear and straightforward look into atomic composition, emphasizing the role of subatomic particles in defining chemical behavior.

Within an atom, a dense nucleus houses positively charged protons and neutral neutrons, while electrons orbit in a surrounding cloud with negative charges. The balance of these opposing charges is maintained by an equal number of protons and electrons. This precise arrangement ensures that the atom remains electrically neutral.

Electrons orbit the nucleus in distinct shells, with each energy level accommodating only a fixed number of electrons. One-level atoms like helium are stable with just two electrons, while atoms with multiple shells require eight electrons in their outermost level for full stability. Atoms that lack a complete outer shell, such as hydrogen and oxygen, adjust by sharing, gaining, or losing electrons to adhere to the octet rule.