how is subatomic particles related to atomic mass unit
how is an electron related t oenergy level
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How are subatomic particles and atomic mass unit related
Subatomic particles are related to atomic mass units (amu) through their respective masses. The atomic mass unit (amu) is a unit of measurement used to express the mass of atoms and subatomic particles. One atomic mass unit is defined as 1/12th the mass of a carbon-12 atom.
In terms of subatomic particles, the masses of protons and neutrons are typically measured in atomic mass units. For example, the mass of a proton is approximately 1.0073 amu, while the mass of a neutron is approximately 1.0087 amu. These masses are close to 1 amu but not exactly because the atomic mass unit is defined relative to carbon-12.
The mass of an electron, on the other hand, is much smaller compared to the mass of a proton or neutron. It is approximately 0.000548 amu, which is about 1/1836th the mass of a proton or neutron. This means that the electrons contribute very little to the overall mass of an atom.
Now, let's talk about the relationship between an electron and energy levels. In an atom, electrons are arranged in energy levels or shells surrounding the nucleus. These energy levels are also called electron shells or orbitals. The arrangement of electrons in energy levels is crucial because it determines the chemical properties of atoms.
Each energy level can hold a specific number of electrons. The innermost energy level, called the 1st energy level or K shell, can hold a maximum of 2 electrons. The second energy level, called the 2nd energy level or L shell, can hold up to 8 electrons, and so on.
The electrons in an atom can occupy different energy levels based on their energy. The energy level closest to the nucleus has the lowest energy, and as we move away from the nucleus, the energy levels increase. Electrons occupy the lowest available energy levels before filling the higher ones.
The energy of an electron also relates to its distance from the nucleus. Electrons in higher energy levels are farther from the nucleus compared to those in lower energy levels. This determines the size and shape of an atom.
The energy levels of electrons play a crucial role in chemical reactions and the absorption or emission of light. When electrons absorb energy, they can transition from one energy level to a higher one, becoming excited. When they lose energy, they can transition back to lower energy levels, emitting light or participating in chemical reactions.
In summary, subatomic particles have masses measured in atomic mass units (amu). The electron, with its significantly smaller mass compared to protons and neutrons, contributes very little to the overall atomic mass. Electrons are arranged in energy levels or shells surrounding the nucleus, and these energy levels determine the properties and behavior of atoms.