Atomist Theory (Noun)
Meaning
(chemistry) any theory in which all matter is composed of tiny discrete finite indivisible indestructible particles; "the ancient Greek philosophers Democritus and Epicurus held atomic theories of the universe".
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The atomist theory, as proposed by ancient Greeks, contradicts the later developed continuum theory of matter.
- In their quest for understanding the structure of the universe, early scientists often returned to the ancient atomist theory of Democritus.
- His concept, although originating from the ancient atomist theory, relied heavily on the discovery of electron and proton.
- An atomist theory essentially holds that particles of matter are discrete and finite, susceptible to division only down to a certain point.
- From the 5th century BC, Democritus's atomist theory stood out, arguing that atoms were indivisible particles that make up our universe.