what is the space between atoms called?

Question

i was sitting in science today and a thought struck me. if electrons have a wide orbit around a nucleus what is the space in between called/ made up of? it can't be made of any known compound because atoms are the smallest known particles and it's mostly empty space. is there a specific name for this? have any scientific properties been discovered with it such as friction?

if anyone knows i would greatly appreciate it if you could also supply a link to information regarding it.

btw only intelligent answers please. don't give me crap like "it's air!" only intelligent responses.

Answer 1

That is a good question. The best and simplest answer would be nothing, but no one really knows the answer to that. We can only observe interactions between particles at that size not actually see into that space. There is a constant interaction between all parts of the atom and electron orbitals are only a probability of where you would find the electrons then the space would not be empty. Take a look at the links below.

Answer 2

It's mostly a vaccuum. Part of the space may be occupied by photons or neutrinos, but mostly nothing.

Atoms are not the smallest known particles. There are numerous "sub-atomic" particles that exists. It is also thought that protons and neutrons themselves are composed of smaller, tightly bound units called quarks, however, most of the quarks are not found unbound.

Answer 3

I think you may be interested in the Quark model that discusses the properties of subatomic particles. The three types of quarks have a system of measurement.

Answer 4

check out the uncertainty principle, we dont' ever know where an electron is at any time, we just draw it taht way to be easier to learn...

Answer 5

it's called free space

Answer 6

There is NOTHING in that "space". No matter at all, it isn't made up of anything!