Electron

Overview

Within an atom the electrons surround the nucleus of protons and neutrons in an electron configuration. The word electron was coined in 1894 and is derived from the term electric, whose ultimate origin is the Greek word 'ηλεκτρον, meaning amber. Electrostatic charge can be generated by rubbing amber with the pelt of an animal such as a cat. The ending -on, shared by most subatomic particles, was used in analogy to the word ion.

Related Topics:
Atom - Nucleus - Proton - Neutron - Electron configuration - 1894 - Greek - Amber - Electrostatic charge - Ion

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Electrons in motion constitute electric current which may be used by scientists and engineers to measure many physical properties. Electric current over time is a form of energy (electricity) that may be harnessed as a practical means to perform work.

Related Topics:
Electric current - Electricity

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The variations in electric field generated by differing numbers of electrons and their configurations in atoms determine the chemical properties of the elements. These fields play a fundamental role in chemical bonds and chemistry.

Related Topics:
Electric field - Element - Chemical bond - Chemistry

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