Subatomic: meaning, definitions and examples

Use to describe something that exists at a scale smaller than an atom. Commonly used in physics and chemistry when discussing particles such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.

• Scientists study subatomic particles to understand the fundamental building blocks of matter
• Subatomic physics is a complex field

Used when referring to something at the scale of atoms or related to atoms. Commonly found in discussions about atomic structure, atomic energy, and elements.

• The atomic structure of water consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom
• Atomic energy can be harnessed for power generation

Typically used in physics to describe fundamental particles that are not made up of smaller components. Also used in a general sense to mean basic or fundamental.

• Quarks are considered elementary particles in the Standard Model of particle physics
• Understanding the elementary principles of chemistry is essential for beginners

Used to describe phenomena or observations at the scale of individual particles. Often used in scientific discussions where precision at the particle scale is necessary.

• During the experiment, the changes in temperature were monitored at the particle-level
• Particle-level simulations can provide detailed insights into material properties

Used when discussing anything smaller than an atom, including particles like protons, neutrons, and electrons. It's suitable for general discussions in physics.

• Subatomic particles are found inside an atom.
• Scientists study subatomic interactions to understand the universe better.

Refers to the most basic building blocks of matter, such as quarks and leptons, which are not composed of other particles. It is appropriate for specialized discussions in particle physics.

• Quarks are an example of an elementary particle.
• The discovery of the Higgs boson was a significant event in the study of elementary particles.

Commonly used when discussing particles in the context of quantum mechanics, emphasizing their behavior under the principles of quantum theory.

• A quantum particle can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
• Quantum particles exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties.

A more abstract term often used in theoretical physics or advanced discussions to denote any entity or phenomenon that operates at the level of individual particles.

• The research focused on particle-level entities to explain dark matter.
• Understanding particle-level entities helps to decode the nature of the universe.