How protons electrons and neutrons relate to an atom's characteristics

In summary, the discussion focused on the role of atoms and their particles in determining the characteristics of different states of matter. It was noted that while bulk properties are generally considered to emerge from simpler underlying rules, they are not entirely defined by the atomic structure of their constituents. This means that emergent properties, such as cracks in a solid, are often unpredictable despite being a result of the atomic structure.
  • #1
Vacrin
19
0
So i was wondering if perhaps a atoms electrons protons and neutrons determine all of its characteristics, such as the hydrogen atom. having only one electron and one proton. it makes it turn into a liquid and solid very close together, and a gas anything above about -259.1°C. and the characteristics of all the others, determined by their particles. it may sound crazy but might it be possible?
 
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  • #2
Bulk properties are generally considered emergent from simpler underlying rules - the atomic structures being key.
However, bulk properties are not entirely defined by the atomic structure of it's constituents - i.e. a solid may have a crack in it ... the structure of the crack is not predictable from the atomic structure.

But then - emergent properties are seldom predictable.
 

What are protons, electrons, and neutrons?

Protons, electrons, and neutrons are subatomic particles that make up an atom. Protons have a positive charge, electrons have a negative charge, and neutrons have no charge.

How do protons, electrons, and neutrons relate to an atom's characteristics?

The number of protons determines an atom's atomic number, which determines its chemical properties. The number of electrons determines an atom's charge and its reactivity. The number of neutrons affects an atom's stability and can also determine its isotope.

What is the role of protons, electrons, and neutrons in an atom's nucleus?

Protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus of an atom, while electrons orbit around the nucleus. Protons and neutrons provide the mass of the atom, while electrons contribute to the atom's volume.

How does the arrangement of protons, electrons, and neutrons affect an atom's properties?

The arrangement and number of protons, electrons, and neutrons determine an atom's size, mass, and reactivity. It also determines the type of element an atom is and its chemical behavior.

What is the relationship between protons, electrons, and neutrons in terms of charge?

Protons have a positive charge, electrons have a negative charge, and neutrons have no charge. In an atom, the number of protons equals the number of electrons, resulting in a neutral charge. If an atom gains or loses electrons, it becomes an ion with a positive or negative charge, respectively.

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