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1. Describe the composition of an atom.2. Write any three characteristics of an atom.3. Write the characteristics of a molecule. |
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Answer» 1. The atom consists of a tiny nucleus surrounded by moving electrons. The nucleus contains protons, which have a positive charge equal in magnitude to the electron's negative charge. The nucleus also contains neutrons, which have virtually the same mass but no charge. 2. An atom is the smallest constituent unit of ordinary matter that has the properties of a chemical element. It is composed of protons, which have a positive charge, and neutrons, which have no charge. Protons, neutrons, and the electrons surrounding them are long-lived particles present in all ordinary, naturally occurring atoms. 3. A molecule is an electrically neutral group of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds. |
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