Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Atoms- Smallest Unit of Matter

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Atoms- Smallest Unit of Matter

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Problem 3

Textbook Question

The reactivity of an atom arises froma. the average distance of the outermost electron shell from the nucleus.b. the existence of unpaired electrons in the valence shell.c. the sum of the potential energies of all the electron shells.d. the potential energy of the valence shell.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the key concept: Reactivity of an atom is primarily determined by its electron configuration, particularly the valence shell.

Understand that the valence shell is the outermost electron shell of an atom, and its configuration determines how an atom interacts with other atoms.

Consider the role of unpaired electrons: Atoms with unpaired electrons in their valence shell are more likely to react with other atoms to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Evaluate each option: (a) focuses on distance, (b) on unpaired electrons, (c) on total potential energy, and (d) on potential energy of the valence shell.

Determine which option best explains reactivity: The presence of unpaired electrons in the valence shell (option b) is a key factor in an atom's reactivity, as atoms tend to form bonds to pair these electrons and achieve stability.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the electrons located in the outermost shell of an atom. They play a crucial role in chemical bonding and reactivity, as they are the electrons that can be gained, lost, or shared during chemical reactions. The number of unpaired valence electrons directly influences an atom's ability to form bonds with other atoms.

Electron Shells

Electron shells are the regions around an atom's nucleus where electrons are likely to be found. Each shell can hold a specific number of electrons, and the arrangement of these shells determines the atom's overall energy level and stability. The distance of the outermost shell from the nucleus affects the atom's reactivity, as it influences the attraction between the nucleus and the valence electrons.

Potential Energy in Atoms

Potential energy in atoms refers to the energy stored in the arrangement of electrons around the nucleus. This energy is influenced by the distance of electrons from the nucleus and the interactions between electrons. In terms of reactivity, the potential energy of the valence shell is particularly important, as it determines how easily an atom can lose or gain electrons during chemical reactions.