Skip to content
Know.itKnow.it
Create an animated lesson
On request

This article is free to read. Creating a lesson uses your daily or stored credits; review the language and settings before starting.

How do atoms work?

ScienceLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

An atom is made of a tiny, dense nucleus of protons and neutrons, surrounded by even tinier electrons. The positive nucleus and negative electrons attract, holding the atom together. Atoms join by sharing or trading electrons, which is how all matter forms.

Step by step

  1. A nucleus of protons and neutrons sits at the center.
  2. Electrons occupy the space around the nucleus.
  3. Opposite charges hold the atom together.
  4. Atoms bond by sharing or transferring electrons.

People also ask

How do atoms work?
A positive nucleus of protons and neutrons attracts surrounding negative electrons, holding the atom together.
What are atoms made of?
Protons and neutrons in a central nucleus, with electrons moving around it.
How do atoms form everything?
They bond by sharing or trading electrons, building the molecules that make up all matter.