Atoms to Mixtures Exploration Introduction

Grade 9 Science Building Blocks of Matter From Atoms to Amino Acids

What Do You Already Know?

Think about water, the air you breathe, and your own body What are these things made of? How small do you think matter can get?

Journey from Macro to Micro

The Atom: Foundation of Everything

Smallest unit of matter that retains element properties Contains three main particles: protons, neutrons, electrons Protons and neutrons in the nucleus (center) Electrons orbit around the nucleus in energy levels

From Atoms to Molecules

{"left":"Atoms can exist alone (like noble gases)\nWhen atoms bond together, they form molecules","right":"Oxygen gas (O₂) = two oxygen atoms bonded\nWater (H₂O) = two hydrogen + one oxygen atom"}

Compounds: When Different Elements Unite

Compounds contain two or more different types of atoms Properties are different from individual elements Examples: Salt (NaCl), Carbon dioxide (CO₂) Can be broken down only by chemical reactions

Sorting Challenge

Work in groups of 3 Sort the model cards into four categories: • Atoms (single elements) • Molecules (same elements bonded) • Compounds (different elements bonded) • Amino acids (complex biological molecules) Record your reasoning on whiteboards

Amino Acids: Building Blocks of Life

Complex molecules containing carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen 20 different amino acids combine to form proteins Proteins perform essential functions in living organisms Example: Glycine - simplest amino acid structure