Using the periodic table: atomic and mass number
I can relate the atomic number and mass number to the structure of atoms of each element.
Using the periodic table: atomic and mass number
I can relate the atomic number and mass number to the structure of atoms of each element.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The atomic number of an element states the number of protons in the nucleus of every atom of that element.
- The number of electrons in an atom is equal to the number of protons in the nucleus of the atom.
- The mass number of an element is about equal to the number of protons and neutrons in atoms of that element.
Keywords
Atomic number - The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element's identity.
Mass number - The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.
Relative atomic mass - The mean mass of an atom relative to 1/12th of the mass of a carbon-12 atom.
Common misconception
Pupils often mix up the atomic number and atomic mass number and get confused over which subatomic particles these represent.
It helps to describe the atomic number as the proton number (to help the pupils remember). Also, the provided periodic tables often have a key to help and this should be highlighted to pupils.
To help you plan your year 10 chemistry lesson on: Using the periodic table: atomic and mass number, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 chemistry lesson on: Using the periodic table: atomic and mass number, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 chemistry lessons from the Atomic structure and the periodic table unit, dive into the full secondary chemistry curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Starter quiz
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