
CrowdScience
Is every atom unique?
Jun 21, 2024
Philosopher of physics Eleanor Knox and physicist Andrew Pontzen discuss the uniqueness of atoms, exploring quantum realms and the constant movement of electrons. They ponder if no two atoms are ever the same and delve into the complexity of identifying a truly unique atom. The quantum world of hydrogen reveals galaxies far away, challenging the notion of uniqueness in an infinite universe.
32:32
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Quick takeaways
- Atoms are not identical but possess limited configurations
- Electron behavior challenges traditional uniqueness concepts in quantum mechanics
Deep dives
Shrinking Down Into the Microscopic World
Imagine shrinking yourself by a factor of 100, turning the world into a minuscule place. Going further down, you reach the size of a bacteria, surrounded by alien-like structures. Finally, at the level of atoms, the smallest building blocks of our universe, the unimaginably tiny scale challenges the perception of reality.
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