Aatomituumade

Aatomituumade, the Estonian word for atomic nuclei, refers to the central core of an atom. It is composed of protons and neutrons, collectively known as nucleons. Protons carry a positive electric charge, while neutrons have no charge. The number of protons in a nucleus defines the atomic number of an element, determining its chemical identity. The number of neutrons, however, can vary within a single element, leading to different isotopes.

The size of an atomic nucleus is extremely small, on the order of femtometers (10^-15 meters). Despite its minuscule size, the nucleus contains almost all of the atom's mass. This mass is concentrated due to the strong nuclear force, a fundamental force that binds protons and neutrons together, overcoming the electrostatic repulsion between positively charged protons.

The study of atomic nuclei is known as nuclear physics. It explores the structure, properties, and reactions of nuclei, including phenomena like radioactivity and nuclear fission. Understanding atomic nuclei is crucial for various fields, including nuclear energy, medical imaging, and the development of new materials. The arrangement and interactions of nucleons within the nucleus are complex and continue to be an active area of scientific research.