Why are atoms in constant motion?

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    Atoms Constant Motion
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the reasons behind the constant motion of atoms, exploring the fundamental phenomena of atomic motion and the relationship between temperature and kinetic energy. Participants seek to understand the theoretical underpinnings of these concepts, including implications in thermodynamics and quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that all atoms are in constant motion due to the presence of energy in the universe.
  • Others argue that temperature is a human-defined concept that describes atomic and molecular movement, suggesting that increasing temperature correlates with increased atomic motion.
  • A participant mentions that the concept of temperature relates to energy manifestation and is directly proportional to energy and speed.
  • One post introduces the idea of absolute zero as the lowest energy state where matter cannot transfer energy due to insufficient atomic vibration.
  • Another participant questions how the classical concept of velocity applies in quantum mechanics, expressing uncertainty about the correlation between classical and quantum definitions of atomic motion.
  • A later reply humorously illustrates the consequences of halting atomic motion, suggesting a dramatic impact on the physical state of matter.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the nature of atomic motion and temperature, with no consensus reached on the underlying theories or definitions, particularly regarding the implications in quantum mechanics.

Contextual Notes

Some discussions highlight limitations in understanding the transition from classical to quantum mechanics, particularly regarding the definition of velocity and its implications for atomic motion.

dolimitless
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Why are all atoms in constant motion? It is just a fundamental phenomena of our world? Can someone explain the theory behind this?

Why does decreasing/increasing the "temperature" affect the speed (kinetic energy) of atoms? Again, can someone explain the fundamental theory behind this?
 
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All atoms are in constant motion because this universe has energy of some kinds.
Temperature is just a concept that human beings use to describe the movement of atomes/molecules. When we "increase temperature", it's nothing other than we increase the movement of the molecules somehow, say put an electric heater under the kettle: the high movement of the atoms in the heater will transfer to the kettle and then the water inside it.
 
pixel01 said:
All atoms are in constant motion because this universe has energy of some kinds.
QUOTE]
there are many things that science haven't explained yet, and only we are in the way to find out all of the law in the univer, i think that any iterms exist in the world have energy, and movement manifest itself of the existence. this is follow the theory of relativity
Temperature is just a concept that human beings use to describe the movement of atomes/molecules. When we "increase temperature", it's nothing other than we increase the movement of the molecules somehow, say put an electric heater under the kettle: the high movement of the atoms in the heater will transfer to the kettle and then the water inside it.[/
temperature is a kind of manifestation of energy, and it is directly propotional to energy, and the speed also, so, when temperature increase, movement is quickly
 
Concept of temperature does put things in the right context. The lowest energy state where the matter cannot transfer energy to other matter because it is not vibrating fast enough, is called absolute zero in thermodynamics (which studies phenomena at molecular level.)

Atoms in motion is just the expression thermal of energy/temperature around us. At sub molecular level, there are a much more fundamental things that need quantum mechanics for explanation.
 
dolimitless said:
Why are all atoms in constant motion? It is just a fundamental phenomena of our world? Can someone explain the theory behind this?

<snip>

I'm not sure they are- at least, I don't understand how the concept of velocity carries over to quantum mechanics. I'm not sure there is even a quantum-mechanical definition of velocity that correlates with the classical picture of tiny little balls jiggling around.
 
Imagine that when you snapped your fingers the atoms could start and then continue to slow down.The temperature would drop the atmosphere would sink and depending on the pressure parts of it could liquify and solidify.The oceans and rivers and all living things would freeze and blah blah blah.Moral,don't snap your fingers.:cry:
 

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