Particle

Name:
Particle
Detailed information:
Any discrete unit of material structure; the particulate basis of matter is a fundamental concept of science. The size ranges of particles may be summarized as follows: (1) Subatomic: protons, neutrons, electrons, deuterons, etc. These are collectively called fundamental particles. (2) Molecular: includes atoms and molecules with size ranging from a few angstroms to half a micron. (3) Colloidal: includes macromolecules, micelles, and ultrafine particles such as carbon black, resolved via electron microscope, with size ranges from 1 millimicron up to lower limit of the optical microscope (1 micron). (4) Microscopic: units that can be resolved by an optical microscope (includes bacteria). (5) Macroscopic: all particles that can be resolved by the naked eye.See Fundamental Particle; Particle Size.