Does diameter of a stable atom ever increase or decrease?

In summary, the outer diameter of an atom's electron shell does not have a fixed value and can change depending on the energy state of the atom. This change can occur due to thermal or electromagnetic factors.
  • #1
ROOT BOY
1
0
in a chunk of a pure element like iron-would the outside diameter of the the last electron shell ever naturally change from picosecond to picosecond?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF.
Technically an atom does not have an "outer diameter" in the same sense that a billiard ball has. usually a "radius" gets defined as the distance within which the electrons will be found some percentage of the time (like 98%).

The idea is to get a picture of the shape" of an atom, remembering that not all the shells are spherical.

So your question hinges on what you want to know for.
Generally electrons are more loosely bound if it is in an excited state (increasing that 98% probability distance)... some electrons promoted to higher energy orbitals. This can happen thermally or electromagnetically.
 
  • #3
If the material is not at absolute zero (which it can't be) then electrons are constantly moving back and forth between higher levels and the ground state.
 

FAQ: Does diameter of a stable atom ever increase or decrease?

Does the diameter of an atom change over time?

Yes, the diameter of an atom can change over time due to various factors such as temperature, pressure, and chemical reactions. However, these changes are usually very small and can only be detected with advanced instruments.

Can the diameter of an atom increase?

Yes, the diameter of an atom can increase in certain situations. For example, when an atom is exposed to high temperatures, it can absorb energy and its electrons can move to higher energy levels, causing the atom to expand.

Can the diameter of an atom decrease?

Yes, the diameter of an atom can decrease under specific conditions. For instance, when an atom loses energy, its electrons can move to lower energy levels, causing the atom to contract. Additionally, when atoms are subjected to high pressure, they can be compressed and their diameter can decrease.

Is the diameter of an atom the same for all elements?

No, the diameter of an atom can vary depending on the element. The size of an atom is determined by the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons it has. As the number of these particles changes, so does the diameter of the atom.

How is the diameter of an atom measured?

The diameter of an atom is very small, so it cannot be measured directly. Instead, scientists use techniques such as X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy to indirectly measure the size of atoms. These techniques allow for the visualization of atoms and their arrangement in molecules, giving scientists an idea of their diameter.

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