Forming Bonds: Summing Up

Upon viewing the Forming Bonds video series, students will be able to do the following: Understand that matter is made up of tiny particles called atoms. Explain that atoms consist of many different types of subatomic particles including protons, neutrons, and electrons. Describe protons as subatomic particles possessing a positive charge and are located in the nucleus of the atom. Explain that neutrons are neutrally charged particles found in the nucleus of the atom. Understand that electrons are negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus at extremely high speeds. Create a simple diagram of an atom labeling the following structures: nucleus, protons, neutrons, and electrons. Describe how electrons travel in energy levels around the nucleus of the atom. Electrons in the outermost energy levels are called valence electrons. Valence electrons play a key role in forming bonds with other atoms. Explain that when atoms bond with other atoms, valence electrons move between them. Understand that atoms have the tendency to fill their outermost energy level. Define an ionic bond as a bond that involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another. Describe an ion as a charged atom that has lost or gained electrons. Cite some of the characteristics of ionic compounds. Explain that covalent bonds form when atoms share electrons. By sharing electrons, each atom fills up its outermost energy level, making atoms more stable. Understand that in metallic bonds, positively charged ions are surrounded by a "sea of electrons", which are attracted to multiple nuclei at the same time. Explain that the ability of electrons to flow freely make metals good conductors of electricity, allow metals to be bent, and accounts for the high melting points of many metals.