atomic structure

American  

noun

Physics.

1. the structure of an atom, theoretically consisting of a positively charged nucleus surrounded and neutralized by negatively charged electrons revolving in orbits at varying distances from the nucleus, the constitution of the nucleus and the arrangement of the electrons differing with various chemical elements.

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atomic structure British  

noun

1. the concept of an atom as a central positively charged nucleus consisting of protons and neutrons surrounded by a number of electrons. The number of electrons is equal to the number of protons: the whole entity is thus electrically neutral

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Etymology

Origin of atomic structure

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

atomic structure

In the worm's jaws, sharper changes in strain across tiny regions appear to increase the interlocking of defects within the atomic structure, producing the characteristic size effect.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 16, 2026

The simpler and more reduced the atomic structure of a material, the longer the quantum transition lasted.

From Science Daily ● Feb. 9, 2026

Understanding the atomic structure of the surface of a functional material is essential for both engineers and chemists.

From Science Daily ● Nov. 18, 2024

Overall, this research advances our understanding of the atomic structure of glasses, providing new directions for material control and development.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 3, 2024

The discovery of atomic structure and the uncertainty principle put an emphatic end to that.

From "A Brief History of Time: And Other Essays" by Stephen Hawking