Atomic Structure Worksheet

Name:

Date:

🎯 WALT: Identify the three main subatomic particles and their properties

Success Criteria:

I can name the three subatomic particles
I can identify their charges and locations
I can use the periodic table to find particle numbers

Part 1: Multiple Choice

1. Which subatomic particle has a positive charge?

Electron

Proton

Neutron

Nucleus

2. Where are electrons found in an atom?

In the nucleus

Orbiting around the nucleus

Mixed with protons

Inside neutrons

3. Which particles are found in the nucleus? (Tick all that apply)

Protons

Electrons

Neutrons

Quarks

4. What does the atomic number tell us?

Number of neutrons

Number of electrons

Number of protons

Total mass of the atom

Part 2: Fill in the Blanks

5. Complete the sentences using the words below:

Word bank: nucleus, electrons, protons, neutrons, negative, positive, neutral

Atoms are made up of three main particles. _____________ have a _____________ charge and are found in the _____________. _____________ have no charge (they are _____________) and are also found in the nucleus. _____________ have a _____________ charge and orbit around the nucleus.

6. Using a periodic table, complete this table for the element Carbon (C):

Atomic number: _______

Number of protons: _______

Number of electrons: _______

Mass number: _______ (if Carbon-12)

Number of neutrons: _______

Part 3: Application and Extension

7. Draw a simple diagram of a helium atom (He) with atomic number 2 and mass number 4. Label the protons, neutrons, and electrons.

8. Explain in your own words why atoms are electrically neutral even though they contain charged particles.

9. Extension: If an atom of sodium (Na) loses one electron, what would happen to its overall charge? Explain your reasoning.

10. Challenge: Research and write one interesting fact about atoms that wasn't covered in today's lesson.

Differentiation Support:

Visual learners: Use colours to highlight different particles in your diagram
Reading support: Key terms are in bold throughout the worksheet
Extension: Complete questions 9-10 for additional challenge