Unit A Technology Idea


Background:

Different atoms have a wide array of different properties and features. They also have different histories, as all atoms have interesting stories behind their discoveries. Wouldn't you like to learn more about an atom or atoms?

With a little research, you can learn a lot about atoms. To help in the search for atomic information, some programs have squeezed a great deal of information into small packages! One very good example of such a program is the Atomic Mac (also available as the Atomic PC):

Clicking on individual atoms yields all sorts of interesting information about the atom's properties, discovery, structure, and much more:

Many screens in the software also allow you to compare properties of all the atoms in the periodic table:

This atomic reference software, and others like it, can greatly facilitate the task of atomic research. If you are interested in acquiring this Mac or PC software, see this complete review for prices and availability.

Note, if you are using a Mac, you should also consider another excellent atomic reference program - Periodic Table.

For an in-depth periodic table reference on the Internet, try the Periodic Table of Elements at the Los Alamos Laboratory.


Task:

Use the Internet and/or reference software to find out as much as you can about an individual element on the periodic table. Some of the things you might make note of are (don't let these suggestions limit you - find out as much as you can!):

What is the structure of your chosen element?
What is its atomic mass - how many electrons, neutrons and protons does it have?
When was it discovered, and by whom?
How abundant is the element, and how is it acquired?
What are some uses for the element?

Write a report on the element using the information you have gathered. Consider different formats for your report, such as a poster, a web page, or a multimedia presentation. Share your report with your classmates and your teacher.

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