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

Nearly 150 years after gallium was first discovered and added to the periodic table, scientists at the University of Auckland have uncovered previously unknown details about the metal's atomic structure and behavior.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 9, 2026

These tools enabled them to examine the atomic structure of the defective graphene, confirm the presence of the engineered defects and determine how they influenced the material's chemical and electronic behavior.

From Science Daily ● Dec. 4, 2025

To induce superconductivity in such elements, scientists must carefully alter their atomic structure to increase the number of electrons available for conduction.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 30, 2025

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

From Science Daily ● Nov. 18, 2024

James Chadwick’s discovery of the neutron in early 1932 posed questions about atomic structure and behavior that could not be fully processed without an understanding of chemistry in addition to physics.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik