Helium Atom: Perpetual Motion Possibility?

In summary, a helium atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element and is composed of a nucleus containing two protons and two neutrons, surrounded by two electrons. Perpetual motion is not possible with any atom, including helium, due to the laws of thermodynamics. Helium is often used in experiments involving perpetual motion because of its lightweight and low boiling point. However, helium atoms cannot move forever as they eventually decay through alpha decay. While helium atoms may have unique properties, they cannot be used for perpetual motion as it is not possible with any atom.
  • #1
heliocentricprose
29
0
Is a helium atom (or any atom with a full valence shell) a perpetual motion device?
 
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  • #2
Yes, if you subscribe to the Bohr model of an electron in an atom as a moving particle, orbiting the nucleus. "Is it a perpetual motion machine of the '2nd kind' ?" No. First and second laws deal with conversion of heat into other forms of energy.
 
  • #3
But, of course, the "Bohr" model was never considered, even by Bohr, to be a very accurate picture of the atom and has long been superceded by the "electron cloud" model.
 

1. What is a helium atom?

A helium atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element. It is composed of a nucleus containing two protons and two neutrons, surrounded by two electrons.

2. Is perpetual motion possible with a helium atom?

No, perpetual motion is not possible with any atom, including helium. The laws of thermodynamics state that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. Therefore, perpetual motion, which requires a continuous supply of energy, is not possible.

3. Why is helium often used in experiments involving perpetual motion?

Helium is often used in experiments involving perpetual motion because it is a lightweight gas that is easy to manipulate. It also has a low boiling point, which allows it to be cooled to very low temperatures, making it easier to observe its behavior.

4. Can helium atoms move forever?

No, helium atoms cannot move forever. While they do have a longer lifespan compared to other atoms, they eventually decay and release their energy. This decay is caused by a process called alpha decay, where the helium atom loses two protons and two neutrons.

5. Are there any potential applications for helium atoms in perpetual motion?

No, there are no potential applications for helium atoms in perpetual motion. As mentioned before, perpetual motion is not possible with any atom. While helium atoms may have unique properties that make them useful in certain experiments, they cannot be used to achieve perpetual motion.

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