particle
Definition
In physics, a particle is a small object which can be assigned various physical properties such as energy, momentum, and mass. Particles can be further classified according to their properties, such as:
- Elementary particles: These are particles that cannot be broken down into smaller particles. Examples of elementary particles include electrons, protons, and neutrons.
- Composite particles: These are particles that are made up of smaller particles. Examples of composite particles include atoms, molecules, and nuclei.
Particles can interact with each other through various forces, such as the electromagnetic force, the strong force, and the weak force. The interactions between particles are responsible for the formation of matter and the structure of the universe.
Particles are a fundamental part of physics. They are the building blocks of matter and the forces that govern the universe. Particle physics is a rapidly developing field of research, and it is helping us to understand the fundamental nature of reality.
How can the word be used?
The air was filled with particles of dust from the construction site.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- particle (a very small piece of matter).
- particulate (of or relating to particles).
- particle physics (the branch of physics that studies the behaviour of particles).
Adjective:
- particulate (of or relating to particles).
Etymology
The word "particle" is derived from the Latin word "particula", which means "small part". The first recorded use of the word "particle" in English was in the 14th century.
Question
Where might you find a particle?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of subatomic particles and their significance in understanding the fundamental nature of matter. Provide examples of subatomic particles and describe how their properties contribute to the structure of atoms.
Answer:
Subatomic particles are the building blocks of matter, existing at a scale smaller than atoms. They hold immense significance in unravelling the fundamental nature of the universe. There are three main types of subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Protons carry a positive charge and are found in the nucleus of an atom. Neutrons, which have no charge, also reside in the nucleus. Electrons, with a negative charge, orbit the nucleus in electron shells. The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number and element, while the sum of protons and neutrons gives the atomic mass.
Electrons play a crucial role in chemical reactions, as they determine an atom's bonding behaviour. The arrangement of electrons in shells contributes to an element's chemical properties. For instance, noble gases have full electron shells, making them chemically stable.
The discovery of subatomic particles has led to the development of particle physics, uncovering intricate interactions and forces governing the universe. Particle accelerators like the Large Hadron Collider have revealed particles like the Higgs boson, contributing to our understanding of the origin of mass.
In conclusion, subatomic particles form the basis of matter, impacting the properties and behaviours of atoms. Their study advances our comprehension of the universe's building blocks and has far-reaching implications in various scientific domains.