[CHEM 1A] - Midterm Exam Guide - Ultimate 20 pages long Study Guide!
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CHEM 1A Full Course Notes
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Document Summary
Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter. They are the smallest particles of an element that retains the chemical identity of the element. A lot of empty space but includes a very dense core. Atomic mass unit (u) is one twelfth of the mass of an atom of carbon with six protons and six neutrons. 1000 amus = 1 kda (kilo dalton) A proton is about 1836 times more massive than an electron. The electron has about negligible mass, while the proton and neutron are just about equal to 1 amu. Elements can not be decomposed into simpler substances by chemical or physical processes (elements are made of one kind of atom) Compounds can be broken down into elements by chemical processes. Matter that has fixed composition and distinct properties. The ratio cannot change in the elements that it is comprised of. Atomic elements are those that exist in nature with single atoms as their basic units.
