Atomic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about something related to atoms or the smallest parts of matter. Often used in physics or chemistry.

• The atomic structure of the molecule is quite complex
• ; Atomic energy has the potential to change the world

Used when referring to the nucleus of an atom, nuclear energy, or nuclear weapons. Often has a serious or potentially dangerous connotation.

• The country invested heavily in nuclear power
• ; The threat of nuclear war is a significant global concern

Used when referring to the basic or essential part of something. It can also refer to the elements in chemistry.

• Water is vital for all known forms of life for its elemental composition
• ; Fire and water are considered elemental forces of nature

Used when talking about particles that are smaller than an atom, such as protons, neutrons, and electrons. This term is typically used in advanced physics.

• Subatomic particles are the building blocks of atoms
• ; Understanding subatomic interactions is critical for quantum mechanics

best suited when discussing the smallest units of chemical elements or energy on a very small scale, particularly in science, physics, and chemistry.

• The atomic structure of an element determines its properties.
• Scientists are studying atomic reactions.

used primarily in scientific contexts, particularly chemistry and biology, when discussing the structure, behavior, or composition of molecules.

• Molecular biology studies the molecular basis of biological activity.
• A molecular analysis can reveal a lot about the substance.

used when referring to the basic or essential aspects of something, often with a sense of being fundamental or primitive.

• Air, water, and fire are considered elemental forces.
• His response was driven by elemental needs.

appropriate for describing something or someone as separate and distinct from others, often in the context of uniqueness or personal distinctiveness.

• Each individual must make their own choices.
• The artist has a very individual style.

Used primarily in scientific and technical contexts related to atoms or atomic energy.

• The atomic structure of elements determines their properties.
• Atomic energy is a powerful source of electricity.

Used in scientific contexts to refer to minute portions of matter, often invisible to the naked eye.

• The scientist studied the behavior of a single particle.
• Particles of dust floated in the sunlight.

Used to refer to a small piece or amount of something, often in informal contexts.

• Can I have a bit of your sandwich?
• There is a bit of dust on the shelf.

Used to describe a small part that has broken off from something larger, often in a literary or descriptive context.

• She found a fragment of ancient pottery in the garden.
• Only a fragment of the story was told.