Final answer:
Matter can be converted into energy through nuclear and chemical reactions. Atoms are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons. The nucleus of an atom contains protons and neutrons, and determines the element.
Step-by-step explanation:
How matter can be converted into energy
Matter can be converted into energy through processes such as nuclear reactions and chemical reactions. In nuclear reactions, the nucleus of an atom undergoes changes, releasing a tremendous amount of energy. This is seen in processes like nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom splits, or nuclear fusion, where the nuclei of atoms combine. In chemical reactions, the arrangement and bonding of atoms change, and energy is either released or absorbed.
Particles that make up atoms
The particles that make up atoms are protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge, and electrons have a negative charge. Protons and neutrons make up the nucleus of an atom, while electrons orbit around the nucleus in specific energy levels or shells. These particles combine to form different elements, which are identified by the number of protons in their nucleus.
The nucleus of an atom
The nucleus of an atom is the central part of the atom that contains protons and neutrons. It has a positive charge due to the presence of protons. The nucleus is very small and dense compared to the overall size of the atom. It is held together by the strong nuclear force, which overcomes the repulsive electric forces between protons. The number of protons in the nucleus determines the element and its atomic number.