Do particles actually have a volume?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of atoms being mostly empty space and how this challenges our intuitive understanding of "solid stuff". It is noted that at the macroscopic scale, objects are held together by electromagnetic force rather than actual solidity. However, there is uncertainty about whether this concept extends to fundamental particles, with some believing that composite particles have dimensions while others argue that they are point particles. The conversation suggests further research through Google and the Standard Model, but acknowledges that there may also be philosophical debates and disagreements about definitions surrounding this topic.
  • #1
droid88
1
0
You often hear "most of everything is made up of empty space", referring to the idea that atoms only have mass in their nucleus. It seems to me that this is trying to explain physics in terms of everyday intuition, rather than the other way around.

Specifically we have this intuitive notion of "solid stuff" and upon learning about the structure of the atom it chafes against that notion. But really, there never was "solid stuff" to begin with, it was only ever electromagnetic force keeping objects in rigid equilibrium, at the macroscopic scale.

However, I can't be sure to extend this down to the fundamental particles as well. Perhaps protons have "actual volume". I hope this isn't too much of a philosophical question (or an argument about definitions) but I am hoping there is an actual concrete answer.
 
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  • #2
Fundamental particles like the electron are point particles (no dimensions) but composite particles such as a proton DO have dimensions. Have you tried Googling it? Have you looked up the Standard Model?
 

Related to Do particles actually have a volume?

1. Do particles have a physical size or volume?

Yes, particles do have a physical size or volume. This is known as their atomic or molecular volume, which is determined by the amount of space occupied by the particles in a given state.

2. Can particles be infinitely small?

No, particles cannot be infinitely small. According to the principles of quantum mechanics, particles have a minimum size or volume known as the Planck length, which is approximately 1.6 x 10^-35 meters.

3. How is the volume of a particle measured?

The volume of a particle is measured using various techniques, such as X-ray crystallography, electron microscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. These methods allow scientists to determine the size and shape of particles at the atomic or molecular level.

4. Do particles have the same volume in different states?

No, particles do not have the same volume in different states. For example, a gas particle will have a larger volume compared to the same particle in a liquid or solid state. This is due to the arrangement and movement of particles in each state.

5. How does the volume of a particle affect its properties?

The volume of a particle can greatly affect its properties, such as density, melting and boiling points, and reactivity. For example, smaller particles tend to have higher reactivity due to their larger surface area, while larger particles tend to have higher melting and boiling points due to their stronger intermolecular forces.

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