Structure of the atom

Structure of the atom

1. Electrons move in shells

   • The inner shells are always filled up first
   • Only a certain number of electrons are allowed in a shell
     • First shell:3 Second shell:8 Third shell:8

2. Atoms are more stable with full outer shells

   • Atoms will react to get full outer shells
   • Atoms share, take and give their outer shell electrons

3. The center of an atom has a nucleus

   • Made up of protons and neutrons (atomic mass)
   • Nucleus is positively charged

4. Atoms are structured as circles with dots or crosses on each shell