Yes, atoms "touch" each other in the sense that they exert influence on one another when they are in close proximity.
While atoms don't have a solid surface in the macroscopic sense, the term "touching" can be interpreted in different ways at the atomic level. Here's a breakdown:
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The "No Solid Surface" Perspective: Atoms consist of a nucleus surrounded by a cloud of electrons. These electrons don't have a defined boundary like a solid object. Therefore, when atoms get close, their electron clouds interact. There isn't a distinct surface meeting another.
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The "Influence" Perspective: Atoms "touch" in the sense that they interact and exert forces on each other. These forces include:
- Electrostatic Forces: Positive and negative charges within atoms attract and repel, influencing their behavior when they are close.
- Van der Waals Forces: These weak, short-range forces arise from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution and contribute to attraction between atoms.
- Covalent Bonds: In molecules and materials, atoms share electrons, forming strong bonds that hold them together in a very close proximity. The sharing is a form of very intimate touching / influencing.
Essentially, when atoms are close enough to influence each other's behavior through electromagnetic forces or the sharing of electrons, it can be said they are "touching." This "touching" is the basis of all interactions between matter.
