With the help of atomic physics, we can understand how atoms behave and what properties they have, for example.
Atomic physics is the name given to a specialty within physics that has allowed, over time, to understand the universe more and more. With information provided by this discipline that deals with the atomic structure as a whole, and having mastery of spectroscopy , it is possible, for example, to observe and understand in depth how matter interacts with electromagnetic radiation .
In other words, atomic physics is a field of knowledge focused on the study of the behavior and characteristics of atoms , without losing sight of the electromagnetic force or the particularities of the atomic nucleus . Since there are micro and macroscopic analyses, this scientific branch takes into account not only traditional or classical procedures but also quantum methods .
Experts in atomic and molecular physics , in particular, investigate the properties of matter from both an atomic and molecular perspective. In this field, it is valuable to advance in the development of molecular simulation , the evolution of systems that enable highly precise atomic calculations , and experimentation related to various atomic processes using a source of ionizing radiation or particle accelerators .
Origin and evolution of atomic physics
It was necessary to discover that atoms are the smallest components that exist in matter and to increasingly explore the path of spectroscopy so that the origin and evolution of atomic physics could begin to be written.
Knowing what spectral lines are and how they are and gathering evidence about the importance of Bohr's atomic model were key to outlining the theoretical basis and the field of application of atomic physics . It is worth noting that given the magnitude of his scientific contributions, the Dane Niels Bohr was rewarded with a Nobel Prize in Physics and remembered throughout history as a determining figure in the advancement and consolidation of many branches of physics .
Atomic physics, subatomic physics and molecular physics have been consolidated, perfected and modernised thanks to the work of numerous physicists of different nationalities and technological progress. The emergence of the periodic table of elements , the double-slit experiment , the recognition of the photoelectric effect and studies on wave-particle duality , for example, were decisive for scientific growth in these fields.
Atomic physics experts typically model atoms in isolation.
Fundamentals
As it emerges from practice, atomic physics is based on three questions: the atomic structure , certain relevant atomic models and some guidelines or postulates of quantum mechanics that apply to the atom.
The attention of specialists in this branch of physics is therefore focused on the nucleus of the atom , the protons , the neutrons and the profile of each electron that appears attached to the atomic center.
The atomic models of Rutherford , Thomson and Bohr are also taken into consideration.
In this field, it is also necessary to be aware of the content and usefulness of the Schrödinger equation , which was proposed in 1925 by a talented physicist named Erwin Schrödinger , and to know what the Heisenberg uncertainty principle indicates and what its consequences are.
Thanks to atomic physics, it is possible to appreciate in depth and make better use of the information contained in the periodic table of elements.
Applications and scope of atomic physics
Atomic physics has multiple applications and scopes. It is important, to point out a specific case as a reference, in research and experiments related to the phenomenon of nuclear fusion and in putting into practice techniques for cooling samples of atoms or molecules by means of a laser field.
Technological advances and scientific challenges are increasingly revolutionizing the field of atomic physics , which could be a turning point with the generation of gamma ray lasers . There are, in this regard, tests with high-speed electrons capable of interacting with a powerful laser field .
Analyzing materials, improving technologies for medicine and medical diagnosis to optimize the process and images of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) or positron emission tomography (PET) and using concepts to improve quantum computing are other benefits that emerge from atomic physics . This discipline is also essential for understanding issues related to high-energy density plasma .
Much progress has already been made in the field of atomic physics , with valuable discoveries being made and opening up paths to continue connecting and complementing this area of study with other scientific specialties. However, there are still unknowns to be resolved, challenges to be overcome and unanswered questions about the mysteries of the universe and matter , for example. That is why work in this discipline, which still has the potential to continue evolving and gaining precision, must continue to be stimulated and encouraged on a global scale.