Atoms, Elements & Compounds
Explain the differences between atoms, elements, and compounds; describe the simple Bohr model of the atom (nucleus with protons and neutrons, electrons in shells); and write and interpret chemical symbols and simple formulae
Typical age: 11–12 years
“If your child saw the formula H₂O on a label, could they explain what it means — which atoms are involved, how many of each, and why water is a compound rather than just a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen?”
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- Physical vs Chemical ChangesREQUIRED
Chemical changes involve rearrangement of atoms into new substances — atom/compound concepts are required
- Acids, Alkalis & pH
Acids are defined in terms of hydrogen ions — the concept of ions and atomic structure is needed
- Radiometric Dating
Radiometric dating depends on understanding atomic structure and isotopes
- Where Elements Come From
Stellar nucleosynthesis depends on understanding atoms, elements, and isotopes
- Pure Substances & MixturesREQUIRED
Purity is defined at the atomic/molecular level — distinguishing compounds from mixtures requires atoms/elements knowledge
- The Periodic TableREQUIRED
The periodic table organises elements by their atomic structure — atoms and elements must be understood first