How were the first atoms created?

In summary, the Dalton's atomic theory states that atoms cannot be created or destroyed, but this only applies to ordinary chemical reactions. The creation of atoms is possible through nuclear fission and fusion reactions, and the first atoms were formed several hundred thousand years after the Big Bang. The formation of atoms is also described in Weinberg's 'First three minutes' and is a result of satisfying conservation laws.
  • #1
Ravyan786Asro
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The Dalton's atomic theory states that atoms can neither be created nor destroyed. Then how was the first even atom created in this blank space? Is it physically possible to create an atom?
 
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Dalton theory applies to ordinary chemical reactions.
It is important to get the context of theories, and the application limits, besides the actual content.
 
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Both of nuclear fission reactions and fusion reactions result in the creation of new atoms, although of course these are produced from previously existing atoms.
The very first atoms, nearly all Hydrogen and Helium, came into being several hundred thousands of years after the big bang.
Before that the Universe was a very hot plasma of particles, too hot for electrons to bind with protons.
After that the first generation of stars came into being, these fusing the H and He into bigger atoms - other elements.
 

Related to How were the first atoms created?

1. Can an atom be created from nothing?

No, an atom cannot be created from nothing. According to the Law of Conservation of Mass and Energy, matter cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. This means that atoms are not created or destroyed, but rather they are rearranged or combined with other atoms to form new substances.

2. Can scientists create new atoms in a laboratory?

Yes, scientists can create new atoms in a laboratory through a process called nuclear fusion. This involves combining the nuclei of two or more atoms to form a new, heavier atom. However, this process requires a lot of energy and is currently only possible on a small scale.

3. Can atoms be created in nature?

Yes, atoms are constantly being created in nature through the process of nuclear fusion in stars. This is how elements heavier than hydrogen and helium are formed. When stars reach the end of their life, they release these new atoms into the universe through explosions called supernovas.

4. Is it possible to create atoms with specific properties?

Yes, it is possible to create atoms with specific properties by manipulating the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in their nucleus. This is known as isotope engineering and is often used in scientific research and medical treatments.

5. Can humans ever create atoms as complex as those found in nature?

It is currently not possible for humans to create atoms as complex as those found in nature. These atoms require extremely high temperatures and pressures, which are difficult to replicate in a laboratory setting. However, scientists continue to study and understand the properties of these complex atoms.

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