8 Chapter One

Figure 1-9 Comparison of on atom with the solar system. (a) Solar system. (b) Carbon
atom.

A comparison such as the one shown in Fig. 1-9 is often made between our solar
system and an atom. The nucleus of the atom is compared to the sun. Electrons
revolving around the nucleus are compared to the planets revolving around the
sun. A major difference between the two systems is the orbital paths of the plan-
ets and electrons. Figure 1-9 shows this difference. The planets have orbits in a
fairly common plane during their trips around the sun. In contrast, the orbits of
the electrons around the nucleus are constantly changing (this is present-day
theory and subject to change later), and their paths eventually produce spherical
shells around the nucleus. The arrangement of these spherical paths of the elec-
trons and direction of their rotation around the nucleus determine the magnetic
properties of the substance.

Properties of Electrons
The electrical properties of a substance are influenced by the number and arrange-
ment of the electrons in the outermost shell. These electrons, located in the outer
shell, are called valence electrons. Keep in mind that all electrons are alike. They
are the same in all atoms. Electrons can be moved among like and unlike atoms.
The application of an electrical force causes electrons to move from atom to atom
in a controlled manner. The movement of electrons from atom to atom is called
electric current. Because all electrons are the same, the basic atomic makeup of
a substance (such as copper) is not changed by electron movement.

Orbiting Electrons
Orbiting electrons do not leave the atom. Orbiting planets do not leave the solar
system. People can orbit the earth and return without being lost in space.