ATOM

Atom facts applicable to the creating of the Star Ways:

• Atoms are made up of three essential particles – protons (+ charge), neutrons (no charge), and electrons (- charge).
• These three particles orbit each other to create a nucleus, which lies at the centre of the atom.
• An atom’s nucleus usually has as many electrons as protons, and has as many neutrons as protons. Adding a proton makes a new kind of atom.
• Neutrons turn atoms into isotopes (a heavier version of the atom).
• Some isotopes are unstable and tend to decay into other elements, giving off subatomic particles or radiation; these are radioactive and are known as radioisotopes.
• Further facts (in simple scientific terms) can be found at:

http://scienceforkids.kidipede.com/chemistry/atoms/electron.htm