subatomic
sub-uh-TOM-ik
/ˌsʌbəˈtɒmɪk/
Of or relating to the particles within an atom, or to phenomena occurring within or between atoms.
This term specifically refers to the realm smaller than an atom, encompassing particles like electrons, protons, and neutrons, and their even smaller constituents (quarks).
The story behind the word. The word 'subatomic' combines the Latin prefix sub- meaning 'under' or 'below' with 'atomic,' referring to the atom. The word 'atom' itself comes from the Greek atomos, meaning 'indivisible.' So, 'subatomic' literally means 'below the indivisible,' referring to the particles that make up an atom, which were discovered to exist after the atom was initially thought to be the smallest unit of matter.
Word relationships
- microscopic (in context): Microscopic refers to things visible with a microscope; 'subatomic' is much smaller, beyond optical visibility.
- elementary: Refers to fundamental particles not made of smaller ones; 'subatomic' is broader, including composite particles like protons.
- macroscopic: Visible to the naked eye; large-scale.
Word family
- atom (noun): the basic unit of a chemical element
- atomic (adjective): relating to an atom
Collocations
- subatomic particle
- subatomic level
- subatomic physics
Example sentences
- "Quantum mechanics is the theory that governs the behavior of matter and energy at the subatomic level." Describing the scale of quantum mechanics.
- "Electrons and protons are examples of subatomic particles." Referring to particles.
- "Particle accelerators are used to smash atoms apart and study the fundamental subatomic forces." Discussing scientific research.
Memory hook
Think of 'SUB-marine' (underwater). 'SUB-atomic' means 'under' the atom, referring to things smaller than an atom. Under the atom
When not to use
Do not use 'subatomic' to mean simply 'very small'; it specifically refers to the scale of particles smaller than an atom.
Fun facts
- Protons and neutrons, once thought to be elementary subatomic particles, are themselves composed of even smaller particles called quarks.
- The study of subatomic particles and their interactions is known as particle physics.
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