Atomic Structure and Properties Module Overview

Introduction

This first unit sets the foundation for the course by examining the atomic theory of matter, the fundamental premise of chemistry. Although atoms represent the foundational level of chemistry, observations of chemical properties are made on collections of atoms.

Macroscopic systems involve such large numbers that they require the mole as a unit of comparison. The periodic table provides information about each element’s predictable periodicity as a function of the atomic number. The electronic structure of an atom can be described by an electron configuration that provides a method for describing the distribution of electrons in an atom or ion. In subsequent units, students will apply their understanding of atomic structure to models and representations of chemical phenomena and explain changes and interactions of chemical substances.

On the AP Exam, you will need to be able to justify claims (answers) with evidence. This starts with identifying the evidence needed to solve a problem or support a claim and then connecting that evidence to known chemical theories.

However, many students struggle with this skill. For example, it's easy to memorize periodic trends, but to gain full credit the electrostatic interactions within an atom that produce period trends as well as exceptions to these trends need to be included in forming a Free Response Answer. The activities of this module will help you not only learn the fact, and learn the reason behind the facts, but learn how to answer questions so that your understanding is evident.

Module Lessons Preview

In this module, we will study the following topics:

Moles and Molar Mass
Mass Spectroscopy of Elements
Elemental Composition of Pure Substances
Composition of Mixtures
Atomic Structure and Electron Configuration
Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Periodic Trends
Valence Electrons and Ionic Compounds

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