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CHARGE IT!
Electrons are the negatively charged particles of atoms. Together, all of the electrons of an atom create a negative charge that balances the positive charge of the protons in the atomic nucleus. Electrons are extremely small compared to all of the other parts of the atom. The mass of an electron is almost 1,000 times smaller than the mass of a proton.
Electrons are found in clouds that surround the nucleus of an atom. Because electrons move so quickly, it is impossible to see where they are at a specific moment in time. After years of experimentation, scientists discovered specific areas where electrons are likely to be found. These shells change depending on how many electrons an element has. The higher the atomic number, the more shells and electrons an atom will have. 
Electrons play a major role in many chemical bonds. There is one type of bonding called electrovalent bonding (ionic) where an ion from one atom is transferred to another atom. It is an even trade, creating two ions. The second type of bonding is called covalent bonding. Electrons are actually shared between two or more atoms in a cloud. Both types have specific advantages and weaknesses.
POWER UPElectrons are very important in the world of electronics. The very small particles stream through wires and circuits creating currents of electricity. The electrons move from negatively charged parts to positively charged ones. The negatively charged pieces of any circuit have extra electrons while the positively charged pieces want more electrons. The electrons then jump from one area to another. When the electrons move, the current can flow through the system.
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Go for site help or a list of chemistry topics at the site map!©copyright 1997-2007 Andrew Rader Studios, All rights reserved. Current Page: Chem4Kids.com | Atoms | Electrons |
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