| Term | Definition |
|
electron cloud |
The area of space around the nucleus of an atom where the electrons travel. |
|
neutral |
The term used to describe an atom that does not have a charge. |
|
ion |
The term used to describe a charged atom. |
|
electron configuration |
The position of different electrons around the nucleus of an atom. |
|
electron dot diagram |
The symbol of an element surrounded by dots representing valence electrons. |
|
valence electrons |
The electrons in the last (highest) energy level of an atom. |
|
chemical bond |
Force that holds two atoms together. |
|
ionic bond |
The type of bond that forms when one atom loses (and another atom gains) electrons. |
|
covalent bond |
The type of bond that forms when two atoms share electrons. |
|
compound |
A pure substance containing two or more elements that are chemically bonded. |
|
metallic bond |
The type of bond that forms when metal atoms "pool" their electrons. |
|
molecule |
A neutral particle formed when two or more atoms are covalently bonded. |
|
polar covalent bond |
The type of bond formed when atoms share electrons unequally. |
|
chemical formula |
A combination of chemical symbols and numbers that shows which elements are present in a compound. |