The Structure of the Atom
What are the three main particles that make up an atom?
Proton, neutron, and electron
What do we call a substance made of only one type of particle?
A pure substance
What is the difference between weather and climate?
Weather is the day-to-day condition of the atmosphere; climate is the average over many years.
What are the main gases in Earth’s atmosphere today?
Nitrogen (78%), Oxygen (21%), Carbon dioxide and others (1%)
What is the charge of each subatomic particle (proton, neutron, electron)?
Proton: +1, Neutron: 0, Electron: –1
Why is distilled water considered pure, but tap water is not?
Because distilled water contains only H₂O molecules, while tap water has dissolved minerals and impurities.
What is humidity?
The amount of water vapour in the air
How has Earth’s atmosphere changed from 4600 million years ago to today?
Early atmosphere had mostly carbon dioxide and little oxygen; now it has mostly nitrogen and oxygen due to photosynthesis.
How are elements different from each other?
Each has a different number of protons.
Why do jewellers mix metals such as copper or silver with gold?
To make it harder and more durable — pure gold is too soft.
How is climatology different from meteorology?
Meteorology focuses on short-term weather changes; climatology studies long-term patterns and trends.
Name one renewable energy source that helps reduce CO₂ emissions.
Solar, wind, hydro, or tidal energy (any one)
Why is the overall charge of an atom neutral?
Because the number of protons equals the number of electrons
What do gold, silver, and diamond have in common as pure substances?
Each is made of only one element — gold (Au), silver (Ag), or carbon (C).
What is precipitation?
Any form of water that falls from clouds — rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
How can humans help reduce global warming?
By using renewable energy, planting trees, and reducing fossil-fuel use.
Where are protons and neutrons found in an atom?
In the nucleus
Why does pure gold (24-carat) not rust, while iron does?
Because gold is a very unreactive element, while iron reacts with oxygen and water to form rust.
Name two instruments used to measure weather conditions.
Thermometer, barometer
What gas in the atmosphere is increasing because of human activities like burning fossil fuels?
Carbon dioxide (CO₂)