Atoms: Do They Die & Where Does It Lead?

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In summary: Anti-matter composed of particles of opposite charge is considered possible.In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of atoms and their behavior in different conditions. It explores the idea of atoms splitting apart or "dying," and clarifies that atoms cannot die in the traditional sense but can undergo changes such as bonding with other atoms, undergoing nuclear decay or fusion, or being converted to energy. The conversation also mentions the possibility and observation of anti-matter, which is composed of particles with opposite charges. Overall, the conversation delves into the complexities of atoms and their composition.
  • #1
johnebgood108
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do they just gon spinning? where does it all lead up to? entropy? or someyhing else?
 
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  • #2
What do you mean by "die?"

There's no reason for them to split apart at all, they should remain in their current state. Electrons, due to the nature of Quantum Mechanics, should remain in their respective orbits, and the nucleus should stay bound, unless exposed to extreme conditions, such as the core of a star, where they fuse together.

Some radioactive isotopes decay into different kinds of atoms, too.
 
  • #3
there's something call proton decay, but it is currently hypothetical and has never been observed
 
  • #4
Atoms cannot "die" in the normal sense. However I expect you already knew this but didn't know how to word the question. So, what CAN happen to the atom? The most common thing is that it bonds with another atom, or several, to form a molecule by sharing, borrowing, or giving up electrons. Since electrons are considered part of the atom, it isn't the same as it used to be. We also have nuclear decay, where particles in the nucleus are transformed into other particles, ejected completely out, or the nucleus splits into large pieces, with each piece forming a new atom of a different element. Finally there is nuclear fusion where the nuclei of two atoms fuses together to form another one of a different element.
 
  • #5
Atoms are matter, and made of subatomic particles.

Anti-matter composed of particles of opposite charge is considered possible.

Adding matter to anti-matter would convert the matter (and equivalent anti-matter) to energy.
 
  • #6
Yngvi said:
Anti-matter composed of particles of opposite charge is considered possible.

Not only is it considered possible, it has been observed. We make antimatter and observe it all the time.
 

1. Do atoms die?

No, atoms do not die in the traditional sense. They can undergo chemical reactions and physical changes, but they cannot be destroyed or disappear completely.

2. How long do atoms last?

Atoms can last indefinitely as long as they are not subjected to extreme conditions such as high temperatures or radiation. Some elements, such as uranium, have half-lives of billions of years, meaning they can exist for a very long time.

3. Do atoms have an end point?

Theoretically, atoms do not have an end point. They can continue to exist and undergo changes indefinitely, as long as the laws of physics remain constant.

4. Where do atoms lead?

Atoms can lead to the formation of molecules, which can then lead to the creation of various substances and materials. They also play a crucial role in the structure and function of living organisms.

5. Can atoms be created or destroyed?

Atoms cannot be created or destroyed through normal chemical reactions. However, they can be transformed through nuclear reactions, such as fusion and fission. In these processes, atoms can be split or combined to form new atoms.

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