Basics about Atoms
What are the main building blocks of matter?
Atoms
What can H2O be broken down into?
H2 and O2
Who first proposed that atoms could not be further divided?
Democritus
What tool allows us to visualize atoms?
Scanning tunneling microscope
Why can't atoms be seen under a microscope?
They're too small
Simple whole number ratios
What experiment confirmed the existence of atoms?
Einstein’s experiment performed by Jean Perrin
Electrons
How many elements have been discovered by scientists?
118
What are pure elements made of?
Identical atoms
What law states that elements combine in simple whole-number ratios?
The law of multiple proportions
Why is light minimized in the STM probe?
What is an example of a compound made by 2 or more elements?
eg H2O, NaCl, CO2
When can the states of elements vary?
At different temperatures and pressure
Who discovered the law of combining proportions?
John Dalton
What makes the STM significant for atomic science?
What term is describes a collection of identical atoms?
Elements
What happens to compounds under the right temperature and pressure?
They revert to their basic elements or are converted to other compounds
What was the first atom scientist captured a picture of ?
Nitrogen
What key concept does the STM prove about atoms?
Their tangible existence and structure