Atoms form specific ions in compounds and some atoms always make ions with the same charge in every compound. It is useful to know this pattern. In this activity you will calculate the numbers of subatomic particles in different specific atoms of elements. The elements will be arranged the same as they are in the periodic table. Specific isotopes will be chosen for illustrative purposes. All isotopes are stable but may not be the most common for an element.
Fill in the missing values and draw an illustration of each atom.
Illustrations must show:
The correct number of protons
The correct number of neutrons
The number of electrons in a neutral atom
Cross out electrons lost in forming an ion
Circle electrons gained in forming an ion
Symbol
73Li+1
94Be+2
199F–1
Name
Lithium-7
Boron-11
No. of p+
3
6
7
No. of n0
4
8
Mass Number (A)
7
13
18
No. of e–
2
2
10
Charge
+1
+3
–3
–2
Illustration
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Answer these questions:
Fill in the table. Under each group number, using the chart above as a guide, write down the charge expected for elements in that group when they form compounds. In these groups, elements always form a specific ion with a specific charge and it is always the same as other elements in the same group. Remember, group numbers go across the top of the periodic table.
1
2
13
14
15
16
17
Based on the expected charges you recorded in the previous question, fill in the following table:
Name
Sodium-23
Magnesium-26
Aluminum-27
Silicon-30
Phosphorus-31
Sulfur-36
Chlorine-35
Expected Charge
Symbol
No. of p+
No. of e–
Your final task is to select one of the ions in the previous table and create a poster illustration on a clean sheet of paper. Your poster must include the following:
A table with the relevant numbers (A, p+, n0, e–), symbol, and name.
A page-filling color drawing of the atom showing protons, neutrons, and electrons in their correct numbers. Make it clear which particle is which.
Your drawing will earn an 85 if it has the above features. To earn a 95 make it an impressive, artistic, beautifully designed poster with additional information about your element and the ion that it typically forms. Ask your teacher about resources to use to find out more. To earn a 100, impress your teacher with your true originality. Be creative, informative, and make it beautiful.
