When we say that atoms are filled with fields, we are referring to the concept of fields in physics. Fields are regions of influence that exist in space and can interact with particles or other fields. In the context of atoms, the fields we commonly refer to are the electric field and the magnetic field.
Electric Field: Atoms are composed of charged particles, namely protons, which carry positive charge, and electrons, which carry negative charge. The arrangement of these charged particles creates an electric field. The electric field of an atom influences the behavior and interactions of charged particles within and around the atom. It determines how electrons are distributed around the nucleus and how they interact with other atoms or external electric fields.
Magnetic Field: Moving charged particles, such as electrons, create magnetic fields. In atoms, the motion of electrons generates a magnetic field. The behavior of electrons and their spins, which can be thought of as tiny magnetic moments, contribute to the magnetic field of an atom. The magnetic field of an atom can interact with external magnetic fields or with other atoms in various ways.
Both electric and magnetic fields are essential for understanding the properties and behavior of atoms. They play a crucial role in processes like atomic bonding, chemical reactions, and the emission or absorption of light. By considering atoms as filled with fields, we can better describe and comprehend the interactions and dynamics of these fundamental building blocks of matter.