What is the Difference Between Atoms and Particles?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between atoms and particles lies in their composition and size.
Atoms are the smallest units of matter and are composed of several particles, which are collectively referred to as subatomic particles. These subatomic particles include protons, neutrons, and electrons. The nucleus of an atom is made up of protons and neutrons, while the electrons surround the nucleus. Atoms can be classified into different chemical elements depending on their atomic numbers.
Particles refer to minute portions of matter, which can be either macroscopic, microscopic, or subatomic in size. They can be atoms, molecules, or ions. Molecules are made of two or more atoms bonded together and can be neutral particles or charged ions, depending on the number of electrons they possess.
In summary:
- Atoms are small units of matter containing several subatomic particles, such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.
- Particles are minute portions of matter and can be atoms, molecules, or ions.
Comparative Table: Atoms vs Particles
Here is a table showing the differences between atoms and particles:
| Feature | Atoms | Particles |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Atoms are the smallest units of matter and the building blocks of elements. | Particles are even smaller subatomic units that make up atoms, including protons, neutrons, and electrons. |
| Structure | Atoms consist of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, with electrons orbiting around the nucleus. | Particles are subatomic and include protons, neutrons, and electrons. |
| Elements | Atoms are the basic units of elements, with each element consisting of only one type of atom. | Particles are found within atoms and can be collectively referred to as atomic particles. |
| Size | Atoms are very tiny particles that cannot be seen through a microscope. | Particles are even smaller than atoms and are considered subatomic units. |
In summary, atoms are the smallest units of matter and the building blocks of elements, while particles are even smaller subatomic units that make up atoms, including protons, neutrons, and electrons.
- Atoms vs Elements
- Particle vs Molecule
- Atom vs Molecule
- Fundamental Particles vs Elementary Particles
- Molecule vs Atom
- Cell vs Atom
- Atom vs Ion
- Atom vs Ion
- Quantum Physics vs Particle Physics
- Atomic vs Molecular Elements
- Atom vs Compound
- Alpha vs Beta Particles
- Isotopes vs Elements
- Proton vs Electron
- Helium Atom vs Alpha Particle
- Atomic Number vs Atomicity
- Ions vs Electrons
- Element vs Molecule
- Atomic Mass Unit vs Atomic Mass