limits

[Christina Diep 3A]

Why is there a physical limit to the minimum size that atom can exist?

[Daniel P 3J]

The physical limit to the minimum size of an atom is determined by the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, which introduce uncertainty in particle properties and energy considerations related to electron orbits and nuclear stability. Attempting to make an atom smaller beyond these limits leads to unstable and highly energetic systems.

[Ariel Peng 3J]

The physical limit to the minimum size of an atom is primarily due to the principles of quantum mechanics. Atoms are composed of a nucleus (protons and neutrons) surrounded by electrons, which exist in quantum states with specific energy levels. These electrons cannot be confined to an arbitrarily small space due to the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, which states that the position and momentum of a particle cannot be simultaneously known with arbitrary precision. This principle implies that if an electron were confined to a very small space, its exact momentum would become highly uncertain, leading to a significant increase in energy, which is not stable or sustainable for the atom.