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Atomic Structure (Principles): Atoms and isotopes Virtual Lab

Learn about the atomic structure of the elements and investigate the properties of element samples from an exoplanet to assess whether life on it is a possibility. Find out what differentiates ions and isotopes of an element.

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Higher Education

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High School

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Atomic Structure (Principles): Atoms and isotopes

About this Simulation

This is the principles (high school) version of the simulation. For a more advanced version please see “Atomic Structure: Assess the possibility of life on other planets”.

In a real research facility, you would provoke a nuclear chain reaction if you changed the number of neutrons in the nucleus of an atom. However, in the Atomic Structure simulation, you will get the opportunity to decide what the nucleus of an atom looks like. You will build anions, cations, and various isotopes of an element from scratch. All that without the fear of causing a nuclear explosion!

Atoms and subatomic particles

Everything you see around you is made up of atoms, and all atoms consist of subatomic particles. In the Atomic Structure simulation, you will learn the names and properties of the basic subatomic particles and understand how changing the number of electrons may charge an atom either positively or negatively.

Identify different elements from the periodic table

As a part of your mission, you will be teleported to an exoplanet to explore on your own, collect samples and come up with observations regarding the presence of life on the planet. Back in the laboratory, you will investigate the properties of the elements you brought back from the exoplanet. The periodic table will be close by to advise and guide you.

What is an isotope?

In order to understand the main properties of an isotope in the Atomic Structure simulation, you will use the holo-table. With the holo-table, you will be able to see a magnified atom of Lithium and get the chance to build different isotopes of the same element.

Are you ready to uncover whether life exists on other planets than Earth?

Learning Objectives

At the end of this simulation, you will be able to:

  • Explain the concept of an atom
  • Explain the properties of the basic subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons
  • Use of the nuclear symbol notation to deduce the number of protons, neutrons and electrons in atoms and ions.
  • Define atomic number and mass number
  • Define isotopes and ions
  • Describe how the atomic number and mass number apply to isotopes

Techniques in Lab

At the end of this simulation, you will be able to:

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Frequently asked questions

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