Introduction to Atomic History WebQuest
Throughout history, people have sought to explain the world in terms of its most basic parts. Ancient Greek philosophers conceived of the idea of the atom, which they defined as the smallest possible piece of a substance. The word atom comes from the Greek word meaning “not divisible.” The ancient Greeks also believed this fundamental particle was indestructible. Scientists have since learned that atoms are not indivisible but made of smaller particles, and atoms of different elements contain different numbers of each type of these smaller particles.
Since all matter—from its formation in the early universe to present-day biological systems—consists of atoms, understanding their structure and properties plays a vital role in physics, chemistry, and medicine. In fact, knowledge of atoms is essential to the modern scientific understanding of the complex systems that govern the physical and biological worlds. Atoms and the compounds they form play a part in almost all processes that occur on Earth and in space. All organisms rely on a set of chemical compounds and chemical reactions to digest food, transport energy, and reproduce. Stars such as the Sun rely on reactions in atomic nuclei to produce energy. Scientists duplicate these reactions in laboratories on Earth and study them to learn about processes that occur throughout the universe.
Understanding atoms is key to understanding the physical world.
-from encarta.msn.com
In the links above you will find specifics of the task at hand, the process you will utilize, and on what criteria your grade will be based. You will also see a link that leads you to resources that will assist in the development of the final project. If you have any questions after reading the information in those links, be sure to let me know!
Understanding atoms is key to understanding the physical world.
-from encarta.msn.com
In the links above you will find specifics of the task at hand, the process you will utilize, and on what criteria your grade will be based. You will also see a link that leads you to resources that will assist in the development of the final project. If you have any questions after reading the information in those links, be sure to let me know!
On Atoms |
Instructions |