Why are atoms in constant motion?

In summary, all atoms are in constant motion due to the energy present in our universe. This movement is described by the concept of temperature and is directly proportional to energy and speed. The theory behind this is explained by thermodynamics and quantum mechanics. However, at the quantum level, the classical notion of velocity may not apply. So, while atoms may not always be in constant motion, their movement is a fundamental phenomena of our world.
  • #1
dolimitless
8
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Why are all atoms in constant motion? It is just a fundamental phenomena of our world? Can someone explain the theory behind this?

Why does decreasing/increasing the "temperature" affect the speed (kinetic energy) of atoms? Again, can someone explain the fundamental theory behind this?
 
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  • #2
All atoms are in constant motion because this universe has energy of some kinds.
Temperature is just a concept that human beings use to describe the movement of atomes/molecules. When we "increase temperature", it's nothing other than we increase the movement of the molecules somehow, say put an electric heater under the kettle: the high movement of the atoms in the heater will transfer to the kettle and then the water inside it.
 
  • #3
pixel01 said:
All atoms are in constant motion because this universe has energy of some kinds.
QUOTE]
there are many things that science haven't explained yet, and only we are in the way to find out all of the law in the univer, i think that any iterms exist in the world have energy, and movement manifest itself of the existence. this is follow the theory of relativity
Temperature is just a concept that human beings use to describe the movement of atomes/molecules. When we "increase temperature", it's nothing other than we increase the movement of the molecules somehow, say put an electric heater under the kettle: the high movement of the atoms in the heater will transfer to the kettle and then the water inside it.[/
temperature is a kind of manifestation of energy, and it is directly propotional to energy, and the speed also, so, when temperature increase, movement is quickly
 
  • #4
Concept of temperature does put things in the right context. The lowest energy state where the matter cannot transfer energy to other matter because it is not vibrating fast enough, is called absolute zero in thermodynamics (which studies phenomena at molecular level.)

Atoms in motion is just the expression thermal of energy/temperature around us. At sub molecular level, there are a much more fundamental things that need quantum mechanics for explanation.
 
  • #5
dolimitless said:
Why are all atoms in constant motion? It is just a fundamental phenomena of our world? Can someone explain the theory behind this?

<snip>

I'm not sure they are- at least, I don't understand how the concept of velocity carries over to quantum mechanics. I'm not sure there is even a quantum-mechanical definition of velocity that correlates with the classical picture of tiny little balls jiggling around.
 
  • #6
Imagine that when you snapped your fingers the atoms could start and then continue to slow down.The temperature would drop the atmosphere would sink and depending on the pressure parts of it could liquify and solidify.The oceans and rivers and all living things would freeze and blah blah blah.Moral,don't snap your fingers.:cry:
 

FAQ: Why are atoms in constant motion?

Why do atoms never stop moving?

Atoms are constantly in motion because of the energy they possess. This energy can come from a variety of sources such as heat, light, and chemical reactions. As long as an atom has energy, it will continue to move.

How do atoms move?

Atoms move in a variety of ways, including vibrating, rotating, and translating. These movements are caused by the energy they possess and the forces acting upon them from other atoms.

What is Brownian motion?

Brownian motion is the random movement of particles, such as atoms, in a fluid medium. This is caused by the collisions between the particles and the molecules of the fluid.

What is the importance of constant motion in atoms?

The constant motion of atoms is important because it allows for chemical reactions to occur. The collisions and interactions between atoms can lead to the formation of new molecules and compounds, which are essential for life and many other processes.

Is there any way to stop the motion of atoms?

At absolute zero temperature (0 Kelvin or -273.15 degrees Celsius), atoms would have no energy and theoretically would stop moving. However, this is impossible to achieve in reality. Therefore, atoms will always have some level of motion due to the energy they possess.

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