Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Subatomic Particles
Subatomic particles are the fundamental constituents of atoms, which include protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons carry a positive charge and are found in the nucleus, while neutrons are neutral and also reside in the nucleus. Electrons, on the other hand, are negatively charged and orbit the nucleus in various energy levels.
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Atomic Structure
The atomic structure refers to the arrangement of subatomic particles within an atom. The nucleus, composed of protons and neutrons, is at the center, while electrons occupy regions around the nucleus, known as electron shells or orbitals. This structure is crucial for understanding chemical behavior and bonding.
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Electron Configuration
Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's electron shells. Electrons fill these shells based on specific rules, such as the Aufbau principle, which states that electrons occupy the lowest energy levels first. This configuration influences an atom's reactivity and the types of bonds it can form.
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