Do natural vacuums exist between particles in matter?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the existence of natural vacuums within atomic structures, specifically questioning whether the space between protons, neutrons, and electrons in an iron atom constitutes a vacuum due to electrical repulsion. The conversation highlights the complexity of defining atomic boundaries, as protons and neutrons are represented as wave functions, complicating the notion of "empty" space. Additionally, the role of virtual particles in mediating forces between particles suggests that this space is not truly empty. The implications of heating iron and its effect on the vacuum state are also explored.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atomic structure, specifically protons, neutrons, and electrons.
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics, particularly wave functions and particle behavior.
  • Knowledge of virtual particles and their role in force mediation.
  • Basic principles of thermodynamics related to the expansion of matter when heated.
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  • Research quantum mechanics and the concept of wave functions in particle physics.
  • Explore the role of virtual particles in quantum field theory.
  • Study thermodynamic principles related to the expansion of materials upon heating.
  • Investigate the implications of vacuum states in quantum physics and their effects on matter.
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Students and researchers in physics, particularly those interested in quantum mechanics, atomic theory, and thermodynamics. This discussion is beneficial for anyone exploring the nature of matter at the atomic level.

tiale11
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Hi, i was wondering today whether or not natural vacuums existed inside of evey cluster of matters that may or may not have an atmosphere. for example, can we say that the space in between protons, neutron, and the electrons in an atom of iron is so small that almost no matter can "fill" the space produced by the electrical repulsion therefore creating a vacuum in that space? If yes then can i also say that as a pure block of iron is heated, the vacuum inside of the block increases by pulling in the vacuum from its neighboring elememts or compounds which also do the same to their neighbors. This will result in a decrease in the overall vacuum of what we know as "Space". In the end, according to my theory, if objects around the universe, that are usually quite cool, were heated so they can expand quite a bit there would be a diminishing vacuum or space in between these objects?

Thank you for your time and please send references ( URLs) as well as your response in order to help me answer my question.
-Alex
 
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You're venturing into strange territory when you try to deal with things the size of atoms. Defining the "border" of a proton or neutron is tricky due to their representation as wave functions and the indeterminacy of their position.

Also, virtual particles that mediate the forces are continuously transferred between particles, which would "fill" otherwise "empty" space.

-------------------
theUndergrad

http://www.theUndergraduateJournal.com/
 
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