What's in the space between atoms, or between nuclei and electrons?

In summary, the space between atoms, particularly between the nuclei and electrons, is known as a vacuum. This was demonstrated by Rutherford's gold-foil experiment in 1909. The matter inside an atom is not densely packed, as shown by the experiment, and is instead mostly empty space. The probability of finding particles in this space is described by their wavefunctions. While there may be passing particles, it is essentially a vacuum between atoms.
  • #1
wasteofo2
478
2
Is it known what's between atoms, or between the nuclei of atoms and their electrons? There's a great deal of space (relative to the size of the particles) between the electrons of an atom and it's nuclei, so are there some particles in those spaces, or is it essentially a vacuum?

Thanks alot,
Jacob
 
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  • #2
Yes,it's true...It's a lotta space called "vacuum"...Rutherford's 1909 gold-foil experiment showed that the matter inside an atom is very ... (opposite of crowdy :tongue2: )...

Daniel.
 
  • #3
Their wavefunctions?

Remember particles don't tend to have precisely defined locations (unless we do not know their momentum- see Uncertainty Principle) and the probability they will be present at a given location in space is described in terms of their wavefunction.

I don't think there are any specific particles between the nuclei and the electrons, but it is possible passing particles would propagate through here.

I would say it's essentially a vacuum.
 

1. What is the space between atoms?

The space between atoms is known as the interatomic space or interatomic distance. It is the distance between the nuclei of neighboring atoms in a molecule or solid.

2. How much space is between atoms?

The space between atoms is very small, on the order of 0.1 nanometers (nm) or 1 Angstrom (Å). This distance varies depending on the type of atoms and the bonds between them.

3. Is there anything in the space between atoms?

Yes, there is something in the space between atoms. This space is filled with electrons, which are negatively charged particles that orbit the positively charged nuclei of atoms.

4. How does the space between atoms affect the properties of a substance?

The space between atoms plays a crucial role in determining the properties of a substance. The distance between atoms affects the strength of their bonds, which in turn affects the substance's melting point, boiling point, and other physical and chemical properties.

5. Can we see the space between atoms?

No, we cannot see the space between atoms with the naked eye as it is too small. However, scientists can observe this space using advanced imaging techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy and atomic force microscopy.

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