Can we remove or decrease spaces between atoms or molecules?
A chemist explains the physical properties of atoms and molecules, specifically addressing why it is impossible to completely remove the space between them. The article uses the analogy of packing spheres into a box to illustrate how natural forces like heat and pressure can rearrange but not eliminate atomic gaps.
Under usual, everyday conditions, carbon atoms exist as stacks of hexagonal sheets, but extreme pressure and heat rearrange them to form diamonds. Kateryna Kon/Science Photo Library via Getty Images Can we remove or decrease spaces between atoms or molecules? Published: August 3, 2026 8:29am EDT https://theconversation.com/can-we-remove-or-decrease-spaces-between-atoms-or-molecules-284163 https://theconversation.com/can-we-remove-or-decrease-spaces-between-atoms-or-molecules-284163 Link copied Share article Share article
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