AQA GCSE Chemistry - Subatomic Particles (Topic 1, Lesson 4)
This is a complete workbook pack for Topic 4.1.1.4. It breaks down protons, neutrons, and electrons using a printable student booklet and an interactive “Atom Explorer” simulation to visualize the concepts.
What is in the Student Workbook (7 Pages):
Page 2: “Inside the Atom.” A diagram labelling task and a data table for relative mass and charge. Includes a “Virtual Particle Builder Log” to record findings from the simulation.
Page 3: Reading the Periodic Table. Step-by-step guide on using Atomic Number and Mass Number to calculate neutrons (Mass - Atomic No) with practice questions for Carbon, Oxygen, Iron, etc…
Page 4: Electrical Neutrality. Explains why atoms are neutral (Protons = Electrons) and includes quick-fire check questions.
Page 5: Exam Practice. Standard short-answer questions on particle properties and calculating atomic/mass numbers.
Page 6: Advanced Practice. A table completion task for Lithium, Calcium, and Bromine, plus a Grade 9 Challenge question comparing subatomic particles by mass, charge, and location.
Page 7: Key Facts Summary. A revision sheet summarizing particle properties and key definitions.
What is the “Atom Explorer” Simulation? I built this HTML tool to help students visualize the abstract concept of atomic structure. It runs in any web browser.
Build Atoms: Students add protons, neutrons, and electrons to see how the element changes (e.g., adding a proton turns Hydrogen into Helium).
Live Feedback: It automatically calculates the Atomic Number, Mass Number, and Net Charge in real-time.
Smart Recognition: The system identifies if the atom is a Neutral Atom, an Ion (Positive/Negative), or an Isotope.
Visualise Shells: Shows electrons filling the shells according to the 2, 8, 8 rule.
Fact Cards: Clicking “Explore Element” reveals real-world facts (e.g., “Carbon is the basis of all known life”).
Files Included:
Student Workbook (PDF) - 7 pages, ready to print.
Teacher Answers (PDF) - Full handwritten solutions and mark schemes.
Atom_Explorer_Simulation_Offline.html - Interactive tool (works without internet).
Atom_Explorer_Simulation_Online.html - Interactive tool .
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