An atom is the smallest particle that everything is made up of.

An element is made up of only one type of atom, a list of elements can be found on the periodic table.

A compound is made of two or more different elements chemically bonded together.

The chemical formula of a molecule is a shorthand way of listing the type and number of atoms in a compound.

The chemical composition tells you the different types of atoms in a chemical.

Atoms, elements and compounds

Chemistry

In the Structure and Bonding unit, pupils will build on their understanding of atomic structure to explore different types of chemical bonding and how these bonds affect the properties of substances.

In the Atoms, Elements and Compounds unit, pupils learned about the differences between atoms, elements, and compounds, as well as their chemical symbols and formulae.

This unit covers the atomic model, relative atomic mass, isotopes, and the structure of the modern periodic table. It explains how atomic structure influences element positioning, properties, and reactivity. The focus is on identifying trends and using models to develop scientific explanations.

Atomic structure and the periodic table

Which subatomic particles are the basic building blocks of atoms?

How do chemists communicate chemical compositions universally?

The smallest particle that everything is made up of.

Made of two or more different elements chemically bonded together.

A shorthand way of listing the type and number of atoms in a compound.

Match the following terms with their definitions.

Hydrogen (H₂) is able to be described as ...

Everything around us is made of different combinations of {{}}, either on their own as elements, or in compound form.

anything that takes up space and has mass

Match the following elements with their correct atomic number (found on the periodic table).

Match the subatomic particles with their correct charge.

Where is the majority of an atom's mass located?

the centre of an atom, containing protons and neutrons

the part of a cell that contains genetic material

a cluster of neuronal cell bodies within the brain

a dense cluster of stars or galaxies, especially at the centre of a galaxy

The term "nucleus" is used in multiple subjects but refers to different things. What does the nucleus refer to in chemistry?

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Atoms, elements and compounds

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.