Atoms

Atoms are the tiny pieces that make up all matter. They are so small you cannot see them, even with a normal microscope. Everything you touch is made of atoms. Your body, your food, and even the air are made of atoms. There are many different kinds of atoms.

Parts of an Atom

An atom has three main parts. The center is called the nucleus. It has protons and neutrons packed together. Around the nucleus, tiny electrons zoom around. Protons and electrons carry a special charge, like in electricity.

How Atoms Connect

Atoms join together to make everything we see. When atoms stick together, they form a molecule. Water is made when two hydrogen atoms join one oxygen atom. Millions and millions of atoms are in just one drop of water. Different kinds of atoms mixed together make all the stuff in the universe.

Fun Facts

• The word atom comes from a Greek word meaning 'cannot be cut.'
• Atoms are mostly empty space inside.
• There are more atoms in a glass of water than there are glasses of water in all the oceans.

Did You Know?

If an atom were as big as a football field, the nucleus in the middle would only be the size of a marble.