FOCUS QUESTION

What is an atom made of and how are its particles arranged?

The map breaks this topic into its core concepts, connected by labeled relationships. Each link is written so it can be read as a complete statement — not just an unlabeled line between boxes.

Concepts and relationships

  • Atom contains Nucleus.
  • Nucleus contains Protons.
  • Nucleus contains Neutrons.
  • Atom is surrounded by Electrons.
  • Electrons occupy Electron Shells.
  • Protons carry Positive Charge.
  • Neutrons have Neutral Charge.
  • Electrons carry Negative Charge.

How to read this map

Begin at the atom, follow the links to the nucleus and its particles, then to the electrons and shells, reading the charge each particle carries.

Learning objectives

  • Identify the three subatomic particles.
  • Describe where each particle is located.
  • State the charge of protons, neutrons and electrons.
  • Explain how electrons occupy shells around the nucleus.
Review standard: Particle locations and charges were checked against standard secondary-school chemistry descriptions. Sources: OpenStax Chemistry 2e — Atomic Structure.