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kevinjacob0607

Subatomic Particles

Updated: Apr 2

There are many subatomic particles of matter in the universe. Almost all of them are in the



atom. The atom is not a subatomic particle of matter. All particles that are smaller than the atom are ‘subatomic’ hence the name. There are four subatomic particles in the atom, which we will learn about here today. We will also learn what subatomic particle light is made of. There are many we don’t know of, such as what dark matter is made of.

                                                                                                              

            Protons are positively charged subatomic particles of the atom. Along with the neutrons, these subatomic particles make up the nucleus of the atom. In different elements, there is a different number of protons and neutrons. For example, in hydrogen, there is only one proton and no neutrons. In calcium, there is 20 protons and 20 neutrons. In potassium there are 19 protons and 20 neutrons. Neutrons are neutrally charged, and do not do anything in the atom except hold up the nucleus. (Department of Energy)(Merriam-webster.com)

 

            Electrons are very tiny, and they orbit the nucleus in energy shells or orbits. They are very light. They weigh 1/1837 amu (atomic mass unit) or in grams they weigh 9.1 x 10-24 g. In comparison, protons and electrons weigh 1 amu. When electrons move inside the conductor of electricity, it generates an electrical current. Along with another subatomic particle, it is the most fundamental subatomic particle in the universe as we all know it. (BYJU’S)

 

            The particle I am talking about is quarks. It is a type of particle and a very fundamental part of matter. They are the tiniest subatomic particles in existence. They are zero dimensional, a point. They join with other quarks, with the help of gluons, to form other subatomic particles- protons and neutrons. There are six types of quarks- up quark, down, top, bottom, strange, and charm quarks. These, along with electrons, create every single piece of matter in the universe as we know it. Quantum physics is confusing. Particles that are so tiny do not abide by the same rules as we do. Subatomic particles are a part of this world.

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shirley.roberts5
Apr 27

Wow, I didn't know about Quarks. Smaller than Protons and Neutrons! Nice to read your article and learn this, Kevin. Thanks.

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