Atoms: Destruction & Transformation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the fate of atoms after they are destroyed, particularly in the context of atomic bombs and similar destructive processes. Participants explore the transformation of atomic components and the implications of nuclear fission.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions where atoms go after destruction, asking if their components disappear or form new atoms.
  • Another participant explains that in an atomic bomb, the nucleus of a Uranium atom breaks into lighter nuclei and leftover neutrons, with protons and neutrons surviving as parts of residual products.
  • A similar point is reiterated by a different participant, emphasizing that electrons are also expelled but remain intact.
  • It is noted that free neutrons decay after a certain period, which introduces a temporal aspect to the discussion.
  • Another participant adds that while neutrons and fission products decay, the baryon number remains constant, suggesting a conservation principle at play.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present overlapping views on the survival of atomic components post-destruction, but there are nuances regarding the decay of neutrons and the implications of baryon number conservation. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the broader implications of these transformations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the assumptions regarding the definitions of "destruction" of atoms or the specific processes involved in nuclear fission. The temporal decay of neutrons is mentioned but not fully explored.

quantumgenius
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Where do atoms go after they have been destroyed for use of the atom bomb, or anything else that destroys atoms. Does the things that make up an atom disaper or form another atom.
thanks,
quantumgenius
 
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The nucleus of an Uranium atom in an atomic bomb breaks up into several parts, two lighter nuclei plus some left over neutrons. All the particles that make up the original nucleus (protons and neutrons) survive as parts of the residual parts. The electrons from the original atom get blown off, but they also survive.
 
mathman said:
The nucleus of an Uranium atom in an atomic bomb breaks up into several parts, two lighter nuclei plus some left over neutrons. All the particles that make up the original nucleus (protons and neutrons) survive as parts of the residual parts. The electrons from the original atom get blown off, but they also survive.
Note: Free neutrons decay after about 15 minutes of proper time.

Pete
 
The neutrons decay as well as the other fission products. However, baryon number (protons + neutrons) stays the same.
 

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