atomistic theory
Definition
- Noun:
- A scientific theory in chemistry and philosophy: The atomistic theory proposes that all matter in the universe is composed of fundamental, discrete, and indivisible particles. This theory forms the historical and conceptual foundation for modern atomic theory.
Usage
- The term "atomistic theory" is used primarily in historical, philosophical, and scientific contexts to describe early conceptions of atomic structure.
- It refers specifically to the idea that matter is not infinitely divisible but has a fundamental, particulate basis.
Examples
- Noun:
- The development of modern chemistry owes a great debt to the ancient atomistic theory proposed by Democritus.
- In his lecture, the professor contrasted contemporary quantum mechanics with classical atomistic theory.
Advanced Usage
- "Reductionist atomistic theory": A perspective that complex systems can be fully understood by reducing them to their simplest, indivisible components.
- Some critics argue that a purely reductionist atomistic theory cannot explain emergent phenomena in biology.
Variants and Related Words
- Atomic theory (n): The modern scientific theory of the nature of matter and the structure of the atom, which evolved from classical atomistic concepts.
- Dalton's atomic theory marked a key transition from philosophical speculation to quantitative science.
- Atomism (n): The philosophical doctrine that physical reality is composed of simple, indestructible particles.
- The philosophy of atomism has influenced scientific thought for millennia.
Synonyms
- Corpuscular theory: An older term for a theory that explains phenomena by the position and motion of small particles.
- Particulate theory: A theory describing matter as consisting of separate particles.
Related Phrases
- Hold an atomistic theory: To subscribe to or advocate for this view of matter.
- The pre-Socratic philosophers were among the first to hold an atomistic theory of the cosmos.
Related Idioms
Noun
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(chemistry) any theory in which all matter is composed of tiny discrete finite indivisible indestructible particles
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the ancient Greek philosophers Democritus and Epicurus held atomic theories of the universe
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