Most accurate way to visualise an atom.

[CarlosLara]

Good morning. I am wondering what is the most accurate way to visualise an atom. In class the teacher draws spheres orbiting spheres, but, according to quantum mechanics, that is far from the truth. How do physicists visualise atoms or particles?

Thank you.

 

[tasnim rahman]

http://http://www.chemistry.mcmaster.ca/esam/Chapter_3/section_2.html
Hope this helps you out.

 

[mfb]

How do physicists visualise atoms or particles?

That depends on the situation. The trick is to find the visualization which is appropriate for the system you consider.

Energy levels in an atom? Orbitals.
Compton effect? Point-like electrons are fine.
High-energy particle physics? Individual particles are usually quite similar to billard balls, their decay is quantum mechanics.
Solid state physics? Use quasi-particles and other effective models, if necessary.
Fine structure in atoms? Do the math.