Build an atom from scratch, using protons, neutrons, and electrons. Test different combinations to produce ions and unstable elements.

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Additional information

PhET sims are fun, interactive, research-based simulations of physical phenomena developed by the PhET™ project at the University of Colorado. Conversion to HTML5 and tablet compatibility supported by the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Sample Learning Goals:

  • Use the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons to draw a model of the atom, identify the element, and determine the mass and charge.
  • Predict how addition or subtraction of a proton, neutron, or electron will change the element, the charge, and the mass.
  • Use the element name, mass, and charge to determine the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons.
  • Define proton, neutron, electron, atom, and ion.
  • Generate an isotopic symbol for an atom, given the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons.