Chapter 6

Thermodynamics

6.1 Atomic Model

6.1.1 Protons, Neutrons, and Electrons

Atom. The name atom is derived from the Greek word ατομοϛ (atomos) that literally translates to “indivisible” or “not to be cut”. The concept of matter being ultimately composed of elements that may not be further divided was first brought forth by Dalton.1

Proton and Neutron. Atoms are composed of a very dense nucleus that consists of neutrally charged neutrons and positively charged protons. The positive charge of a proton amounts to one elementary charge that is equal to 1.602 176 565 × 10−19 C. The mass of protons is 1.672 621 777 × 10−27 kg. The mass of neutrons is 1.674 927 351 × 10−27 kg and they are usually considered to have approximately the same mass. ...

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