In a previous article I discussed the following ways atoms bond: Covalent Bonds: bond by sharing valence electrons equally between them, Polar Covalent Bonds: where the valence electrons are still shared between atoms but electrons will tend to hang around the more electronegative atom creating partial charges for each atom, Ionic Bonds: wherein the more electronegative atom … Continue reading The Weak Interactions Between Atoms

Atoms are made up of neutrons and protons located within the nucleus and electrons around the nucleus. Electrons inhabit “orbits” that surround the nucleus. Calling them “orbits” is misleading, they are more like areas of probability where electrons are likely to be found called orbitals.  The concept of orbitals will be discussed at another time. … Continue reading Valence Electrons, the Octet Rule, and Electronegativity

What are isotopes? You may have heard of them many times in movies when they are talking about nuclear weapons, but isotopes are not just unstable atoms used for undergoing nuclear fission (the splitting of an atom’s nucleus), they are, simply put, atoms that have the same number of protons, but vary in their number … Continue reading What are Isotopes?