Honors Chemistry - Study Guide
Chapter 4 – The Structure of the Atom
Sections 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4
Concepts:
Compare and contrast the atomic models of Dalton, J.J. Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr and the Quantum
Mechanical Model
Distinguish between the subatomic particles in terms of their relative change and mass
Describe the structure of the current model of the atom, including the locations of the subatomic
particles (p+, n0, e-)
Explain the role of atomic number in determining the identity of an atom
Define an isotope and explain why atomic masses are not whole numbers
Calculate the number of p+, n0, e- given an element’s mass number, atomic number, charge and symbol
or write the symbol for an element given the number of p+, n0, e- given an element’s mass number,
atomic number, and charge
Explain the relationship between unstable nuclei and radioactive decay
Characterize alpha, beta, and gamma radiation in terms of mass, charge and penetrating ability
Key Terms:
Vocabulary from sections 4.1 – 4.4
Important scientists to know: Democritus, John Dalton, J. J. Thomson, Rutherford, Niels Bohr, &
Schrödinger
Chapter 25 – Nuclear Chemistry
Sections 25.1, 25.2, 25.3, 25.4, and 25.5
Concepts:
Know what scientists were important in studying radioactivity and state their discoveries
Explain why certain nuclei are radioactive
Write balanced nuclear equations
Solve half-life problems
Compare and contrast nuclear fission and nuclear fusion
Explain the process by which nuclear reactors generate electricity
Explain an application of radiation in everyday life
Describe some of the damaging effects of radiation on biological systems
Key Terms:
Vocabulary from sections 25.1 – 25.5
Important scientists to know: Roentgen, Becquerel, Marie and Pierre Curie, Rutherford
Test Setup:
True/False where you correct the false
Multiple choice
Calculations/Problems – (Sigfigs)
- Calculate average atomic mass of an element using isotopes
- Calculate the number of protons, neutrons and electrons, and mass number (fill in a table)
- Write /complete nuclear equations for alpha decay, beta decay, positron emission, electron
capture and neutron capture
- Determining half-life and the amount of a substance left
Possible Short Answer Questions:
Sketch or describe J.J. Thomson’s, Rutherford’s, Bohr’s or the Quantum Mechanical Model of the
atom and identify where each type of subatomic particle would be located.
Compare and Contrast a nuclear reaction and a chemical reaction.
Identify types of radiation shown in a diagram
Given several isotopes and the average atomic mass of the element, determine which isotope occurs in
greater abundance and explain why.