If all the empty space of atoms were removed, how big would this earth be?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the hypothetical scenario of compressing Earth by removing all the empty space within atoms. Participants explore various estimates of how large the Earth would be in this compressed state, referencing different scales and comparisons.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the size of Earth if all atomic empty space were removed, noting conflicting estimates from their science teacher and others.
  • Another participant suggests that the Earth would be approximately 500 meters across based on calculations involving the size of iron atoms and their nuclei.
  • A different participant introduces the concept of the black hole radius of Earth, stating it to be about 1 cm.
  • A later reply reflects on the initial confusion, indicating that the science teacher may have been referring to black hole density rather than the density of compressed atoms.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the size of the Earth when compressed, with estimates ranging from the size of a marble to a large stadium, and also introduce the concept of black hole density, indicating that multiple competing views remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes varying assumptions about atomic structure and density, as well as the implications of black hole physics, which may not have been fully explored or defined by participants.

sskkambad
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Hi everyone, first time poster.
Considering some of the things discussed here, I apologize if my question sounds simplistic.

If this Earth could be compressed so that all the empty space in atoms would disappear how big would this Earth be?
My science teacher once told me that it would be the size of a marble, and I've also heard that it would be the size of a large stadium. I realize it's not an easy thing to estimate but that seems to be quite a difference.

An example of such scales of atoms would be appreciated. (i.e. I've also been told all 6.5 people in this world could be compressed into the size of a kidney bean)

Thanks!
 
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The stadium is closer. An iron atom has a radius of about 1.2 x 10-10 m and an iron nucleus about 4.6 x 10-15 m. So there is a factor of about 26000 in radius, which means the Earth would be about 500 m across.
 
The black hole radius of the Earth is about 1 cm.
 
Thanks for the answer! Come to think of it, I think my science teacher was referring to the black hole density, not the compressed atom density.
 

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