Atomically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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atomically

[əˈtɒmɪkli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

science term

Atomically refers to something done or considered at the atomic level. It often relates to the structure, behavior, or interactions of atoms in various contexts, particularly in physics and chemistry.

Examples of usage

  • The process occurs atomically.
  • Atomically, the elements bond in unique ways.
  • The calculations were done atomically for precision.
  • His research focused on atomically thin materials.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Atoms are the building blocks of everything in the universe, making up all elements and compounds.
  • Each atom consists of a nucleus, made of protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons, which are constantly moving.
  • The study of atomic behavior leads to fields such as quantum mechanics, which explores the strange properties of matter at very small scales.

Literature

  • In literature, 'atomically' can be used metaphorically to describe exploring the smallest details in a narrative, often to reveal deeper meanings.
  • Some science fiction works use atomic themes to explore ideas of creation, destruction, or the nature of reality.
  • Authors like Isaac Asimov often incorporated atomic concepts into their works to discuss future technology and ethics.

Pop Culture

  • Films like 'Ant-Man' depict the concept of shrinking and seeing the world at an atomic level, mixing science with entertainment.
  • Video games, such as 'Kerbal Space Program,' involve atomic concepts when building spacecraft and exploring the universe.
  • In popular media, the term 'atomic' can symbolize power or energy, seen in phrases like 'atomic bomb' which dramatically shapes culture and politics.

Psychology

  • The concept of breaking down complex ideas into 'atomic' components can help in problem-solving and understanding behaviors.
  • Cognitive-behavioral approaches often focus on identifying atomic thought patterns to address mental health issues.
  • Understanding 'atomic' habits reflects an emerging trend in personal development, emphasizing small changes for significant life improvements.

Origin of 'atomically'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Atomically' comes from 'atom,' which is derived from the Greek word 'atomos,' meaning 'indivisible.'
  • The suffix '-ically' is used to form adverbs, suggesting manner or relation, as in 'magically' or 'dramatically.'
  • The concept of the atom as a fundamental unit of matter emerged in ancient Greek philosophy, notably with Democritus.

The term 'atomically' derives from the word 'atom', which comes from the Ancient Greek word 'atomon', meaning 'indivisible'. This Greek term was formed from 'a-' meaning 'not' and 'tomos' meaning 'cut'. The concept of the atom emerged in the early philosophical thinking of the pre-Socratics, particularly Leucippus and Democritus, in the 5th century BCE, who theorized that all matter is composed of small, indivisible particles. The scientific understanding of the atom evolved significantly over the centuries, especially with the development of modern chemistry and physics in the 19th and 20th centuries. The suffix '-ically' denotes an adverbial form, indicating that the action relates to the atomic structure or properties. The usage of 'atomically' has become common in scientific literature, especially in discussions about quantum mechanics, materials science, and nanotechnology, reflecting its increasing relevance in contemporary scientific discourse.