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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of atomic structure

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

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

According to Deshpande, these findings and the algorithmic tools used to obtain them can help researchers probe the atomic structure of other reactions, including methanol synthesis used in products that range from paints to fuel cells.

From Science Daily

Through DFT modeling, Liu's group discovered that in high-temperature superconductors, the electron "superhighway" remains stable because of a unique atomic structure -- similar to a pontoon bridge that flexes with waves, allowing electrons to move smoothly even when thermal vibrations increase.

From Science Daily

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

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

From Science Daily