atómico

Atómico is the Spanish and Portuguese adjective meaning relating to atoms. In Portuguese, the word appears as atômico. The root is the Greek atomos, meaning “indivisible,” transmitted through Latin and the Romance languages.

In science, the concept rests on atomic theory: matter is composed of atoms, each with a central nucleus of protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons in orbit around the nucleus. The atomic number Z specifies the element, and the atomic mass A approximates the total number of nucleons. Isotopes are variants with different neutron counts. Electrons occupy quantum-mechanical orbitals, and their arrangement determines chemical properties and reactivity.

Beyond basic science, atom-related concepts underpin nuclear physics, enabling understanding of nuclear reactions such as fission and fusion, and technologies including atomic clocks, radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Atomic and molecular spectroscopy permits the analysis of matter through emitted or absorbed light. The periodic table organizes elements by atomic number and electron configuration.

In culture and language, Atómico may appear as a descriptor in titles, brands, or artistic works to evoke precision, modernity, or futuristic themes. The term is common in education, science communication, and policy discourse when discussing atomic energy, materials, and fundamental physics.