Explain how subatomic particles are arranged on an atomic model.

Answer 1

Subatomic particles are arranged on an atomic model based on various theories and experimental observations. The most commonly known atomic model is the Bohr model, which describes the arrangement of subatomic particles in an atom.

According to the Bohr model, an atom consists of a central nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons in different energy levels or shells. The protons have a positive charge, while neutrons are neutral and do not carry any charge. Electrons have a negative charge that is equal in magnitude to the charge of a proton.

The electron shells or energy levels are denoted by quantum numbers such as n=1, n=2, n=3, and so on. The electrons in an atom occupy these energy levels in a specific manner. The first energy level or shell, n=1, is closest to the nucleus and can accommodate a maximum of 2 electrons. The second energy level or shell, n=2, can hold up to 8 electrons. The subsequent energy levels can accommodate more electrons as per their respective formulas (2n^2).

The electrons are arranged in the energy levels based on the Aufbau principle, which states that electrons fill the lowest energy levels first before occupying the higher ones. This principle is also known as the "building up" principle.

Furthermore, subatomic particles are arranged in a way that satisfies the Pauli exclusion principle, which states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of quantum numbers. This means that within each energy level, there are sublevels or orbitals where electrons are distributed. Each orbital can hold a maximum of 2 electrons with opposite spins.

The arrangement of subatomic particles within an atom is governed by the attractive forces between the negatively charged electrons and the positively charged protons in the nucleus. These forces help maintain the stability of the atom and determine its overall properties.

It is important to note that there are more complex models of the atom, such as the quantum mechanical model, which provide a more detailed and accurate description of the arrangement of subatomic particles. However, the Bohr model is a simplified representation that is widely used for introductory understanding.