Simpler Version:
Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter. They consist of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. Atoms combine to form molecules through chemical reactions.
Same Version:
Atoms are the fundamental units of matter. They consist of a nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, and electrons that orbit the nucleus. Atoms retain the chemical properties of their respective elements and can combine to form molecules.
More Complex Version:
Atoms are the fundamental constituents of matter, serving as the building blocks of all substances. They possess a central nucleus composed of positively charged protons and uncharged neutrons. Surrounding the nucleus are negatively charged electrons, which orbit in specific energy levels or shells. The number of protons determines the atomic number and defines the element, while the total number of protons and neutrons determines the atomic mass. Atoms can interact with one another through chemical reactions, forming bonds and creating molecules with unique properties and characteristics. The study of atoms and their behavior is a complex field known as atomic physics, which plays a crucial role in understanding the nature of matter and the universe.