Build an Atom A gold star indicates high-quality, inquiry-based activities that follow the PhET design guidelines.


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Title Build an Atom
Description Learning Objectives for this activity include: 1. Draw models that show atoms or ions. 2. Use information about the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons to • Identify an element and its position on the periodic table • Draw models of atoms • Determine if the model is for a atom or an ion. 3. Predict how changing the number protons, neutrons, or electrons will change the element, the charge, and the mass of an atom or ion.
Subject Chemistry
Level Middle School
Type Guided Activity, Homework, Lab
Duration 60 minutes
Answers Included No
Language English
Keywords charge, electrons, ion, mass, neutrons, protons
Simulation(s) Build an Atom (HTML5), Build an Atom


Author(s) Emily Moore, Ariel Paul, Trish Loeblein, Kathy Perkins
School / Organization PhET
Date submitted 2/7/14
Date updated 7/1/15