The terms "atomic" and "nuclear" are often used in the context of physics and chemistry to refer to different aspects of matter and energy. Here's the difference between the two:
Atomic: The term "atomic" primarily relates to the structure and properties of atoms, which are the basic building blocks of matter. Atoms consist of a central nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons in various energy levels or orbitals. Atomic physics deals with the behavior of atoms, including their electronic structure, interactions, and properties such as atomic spectra, chemical bonding, and reactions.
Nuclear: "Nuclear" refers to the nucleus of an atom, which is the dense, positively charged core containing protons and neutrons. Nuclear physics focuses on the study of the nucleus, its properties, and the interactions between its constituents. This field investigates processes like nuclear reactions, radioactive decay, nuclear fission, and nuclear fusion. Nuclear physics also explores phenomena related to subatomic particles within the nucleus, such as quarks and gluons.
In summary, "atomic" primarily concerns the behavior and properties of electrons and their interactions with the nucleus, while "nuclear" focuses on the properties, structure, and interactions of the nucleus itself, including the processes involving protons and neutrons. Both atomic and nuclear physics are essential for understanding the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels.