核心概念
Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of all matter in the Universe, showcasing remarkable properties that allow for complex structures and interactions to emerge.
要約
Atoms, as postulated over 2000 years ago by Democritus, form the core of our material reality. Despite being made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons, atoms retain their essential characteristics that enable them to build complex structures. The behavior of atoms is governed by electrically charged components and quantum mechanics rules, leading to a variety of molecular configurations. Understanding atoms leads to insights into molecules, proteins, enzymes, and even living organisms. The existence of isotopes and atomic nuclei composed of protons and neutrons hints at additional fundamental forces beyond electromagnetism. Atoms play a crucial role in explaining chemical reactions, nuclear fusion in stars, and the variety of elements in the periodic table.
統計
Atoms contained within a single human body amount to around 10^28.
The traditional model depicts an atom with a positively charged nucleus orbited by negatively charged electrons.
Electrons orbiting an atom occupy the lowest available energy level.
Energy levels within atoms are quantized multiples of Planck's constant.
Only two electrons can occupy each energy level due to the Pauli exclusion principle.
引用
"Everything that’s made up of normal matter within our Universe — whether solid, liquid or gas — is made of atoms."
"The knowledge that there were 'interesting' things in the microscopic world would lead to the discovery of cells, organelles, molecules and their atomic constituents."
"If there were only one piece of information to pass on to a surviving group of humans in a post-apocalyptic world, there might be no piece of information as valuable as the mere fact that we’re all made of atoms."