ATOMIC

Definition of ATOMIC

ATOMIC Adjective

The term atomic is primarily used as an adjective, relating to atoms, the smallest units of matter that retain the properties of an element. It is also used in contexts related to nuclear energy and weapons.

As an adjective, atomic describes anything pertaining to atoms. For example, “The atomic structure of the element determines its chemical properties,” indicates the relevance to atoms. It is often used in scientific, technological, and nuclear contexts.

Scientific Context: Atomic is commonly used in the field of chemistry and physics to describe phenomena or characteristics related to atoms. For example, “Atomic theory explains the behavior of matter at the smallest scale,” refers to the scientific understanding of atoms. Terms like atomic mass, atomic number, and atomic radius are foundational in these sciences.

Atomic Structure: Atomic pertains to the composition and configuration of an atom, including protons, neutrons, and electrons. For example, “The atomic nucleus contains protons and neutrons,” highlights components of the atom. Understanding atomic structure is crucial for studying chemical reactions and physical properties of elements.

Atomic Energy: Atomic is also used in the context of nuclear energy, derived from the fission or fusion of atomic nuclei. For example, “Atomic energy is harnessed in nuclear power plants to generate electricity,” illustrates its application. This form of energy is both powerful and controversial due to its potential for both beneficial uses and destructive capabilities.

Atomic Weapons: Atomic describes weapons that use nuclear reactions to cause massive explosions, commonly known as atomic bombs or nuclear weapons. For example, “The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki had devastating effects,” refers to historical events during World War II. These weapons have significant geopolitical and ethical implications.

Atomic Scale: Atomic can refer to measurements and phenomena at the scale of atoms, often extremely small. For example, “Atomic-scale imaging techniques allow scientists to observe individual atoms,” highlights advanced technological applications. This scale is crucial for nanotechnology and materials science.

Atomic Number: Atomic in the context of the periodic table refers to the atomic number, which is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. For example, “Carbon has an atomic number of six,” specifies an element’s identity. The atomic number determines the element’s position in the periodic table and its chemical behavior.

Atomic Theory: Atomic relates to theories and models that explain the nature and behavior of atoms. For example, “Dalton’s atomic theory was a major advancement in understanding chemical reactions,” refers to historical scientific developments. These theories form the basis of modern chemistry and physics.

Atomic Interactions: Atomic interactions include forces and bonds between atoms, such as covalent, ionic, and metallic bonds. For example, “Atomic interactions determine the properties of materials,” indicates the importance of these forces. Understanding these interactions is essential for material science and engineering.

In conclusion, atomic is primarily an adjective that pertains to atoms, the basic units of matter. It is used in scientific contexts to describe atomic structure, energy, weapons, and interactions. The term is foundational in chemistry and physics, playing a crucial role in our understanding of the material world. Its applications in energy and technology demonstrate its broad significance, while its historical and ethical implications highlight its impact on society.

Examples of ATOMIC in a sentence

  • An atomic bomb harnesses nuclear fission to release immense amounts of energy through the splitting of atomic nuclei.
  • The development and use of atomic weapons during World War II ushered in the nuclear age and had profound global consequences.
  • Atomic energy, derived from controlled nuclear reactions, is utilized in nuclear power plants to generate electricity.
  • The study of atomic structure and behavior is fundamental to fields such as physics, chemistry, and materials science.
  • Isotopes, variations of elements with different numbers of neutrons, play crucial roles in medical imaging and treatment, utilizing atomic properties.
  • Advances in atomic spectroscopy enable scientists to analyze the elemental composition of materials with unprecedented precision.
  • Atomic clocks, based on the vibrations of atoms, are the most accurate timekeeping devices known, used in GPS satellites and scientific research.
  • Understanding atomic interactions and quantum mechanics is essential for developing new technologies and materials in nanotechnology and beyond.

Origin of ATOMIC

The term atomic has a fascinating etymology that traces back to ancient philosophical and scientific explorations of matter.

  • Etymology and Origins: The word atomic originates from the Greek word “atomos,” meaning “indivisible” or “uncuttable.” Greek philosophers like Democritus and Leucippus first introduced the concept of the atom as the smallest, indivisible component of matter.
  • Scientific Evolution: The term atomic gained significant scientific relevance in the early 19th century with John Dalton’s atomic theory, which proposed that all matter is composed of small, indivisible particles called atoms. This theory laid the foundation for modern chemistry and physics.
  • Modern Usage: In the 20th century, the term atomic became associated with nuclear physics and energy, particularly after the discovery of the atomic nucleus by Ernest Rutherford and the development of nuclear weapons and atomic energy. The term now commonly refers to anything related to atoms, including atomic structure, atomic energy, and atomic bombs.

The word atomic reflects a rich history of scientific inquiry and discovery, evolving from ancient philosophical ideas to modern scientific and technological advancements.

Synonyms

  • Nuclear
  • Atomic energy
  • Nuclear power
  • Atomic physics
  • Atomic energy
  • Atomic age
  • Nuclear technology
  • Atomic bomb

Antonyms

  • Non-nuclear
  • Conventional
  • Traditional
  • Non-atomic
  • Non-radioactive
  • Non-nuclear power
  • Fossil fuel
  • Renewable energy

Related

  • Radioactivity
  • Nuclear reactor
  • Radiation
  • Atomic theory
  • Nuclear weapons
  • Atomic structure
  • Nuclear fusion
  • Atomic testing

🌐 🇬🇧 ATOMIC in other languages

Terms of Use

Privacy & Cookies

Disclaimer

Who We Are

Main Sections

Idioms

Geographical Locations

Organisations

Professions

Let´s Talk

Contact

Instagram

® 2024 https://DefinitionGo.com