Words / B2

i-LEKTR-on/ɪˈlektrɒn/

An electron is a tiny particle with a negative charge that moves around an atom's nucleus: electron configuration; free electrons. Proton is positive; neutron has no charge; ion is a charged atom or group. State the electron configuration only as the specification lists it. Mix-up: electron vs electricity as a vague word; electron vs electronic device; do not write electron for a whole atom.

Meaning

A tiny particle with a negative charge that moves around an atom's nucleus.

Examples

• “State the electron configuration only as the specification lists it, the chemistry paper said.”
• “Electron flow featured in the circuit practical, which is still current in amperes — quote A if asked.”

Good to know

an electron; electron configuration / shell / flow. Contrast: proton / neutron. Trap: a gadget / a whole atom. Chemistry and physics. Negative particle — name the shell or the current unit.

Near in meaning

negative particle, beta particle, e⁻

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