Conceptual Physical Science Explorations
Conceptual Physical Science Explorations
2nd Edition
ISBN: 9780321567918
Author: Paul G. Hewitt, Leslie A. Hewitt, John A Suchocki
Publisher: Addison Wesley
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Question
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Chapter 15, Problem 1RQ
To determine

The atom that is most plentiful in the universe.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Answer to Problem 1RQ

The atom that is most plentiful in the universe is hydrogen.

Explanation of Solution

An atom is so small that it could not be seen even through a microscope. Their size is negligible when compared with the wavelengths of visible light. Thus when visible wavelengths are passed, they pass the atom without undergoing any reflection. Higher the atomic number of an element, the less abundant would be the element in the universe.

Hydrogen is the most simplistic atom in the universe, with only one proton and one electron. It is considered as the original atom. Hydrogen makes up more than ninety percentages of the atoms in the known universe.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the atom that is most plentiful in the universe is hydrogen.

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