Across-atomic describes interactions, relationships, or phenomena that transcend the boundaries or scales typically associated with individual atoms. It signifies a level of organization or influence extending beyond the atomic realm, encompassing larger structures, emergent properties, or collective behaviors observable in molecules, materials, or systems. This term highlights interconnectedness and dependencies that span multiple atomic units, emphasizing the importance of understanding phenomena in relation to the whole rather than isolating individual components. This term is used in the physical, chemical, and biological sciences to highlight concepts like: cooperative effects in materials, self-assembly processes, and the large-scale properties of systems. It suggests that understanding the nature of these complexities will be crucial for advances in fields such as materials science and biotechnology, where precise control of the structure and behaviour of atoms is increasingly important.
Across-atomic meaning with examples
- Scientists studying superconductors investigate Across-atomic behavior, such as the movement of electrons through the material in a coordinated fashion, not just considering the electrons associated with individual atoms. This collective behavior reveals properties like zero electrical resistance, which is beyond the scope of any single atom and its simple electronic structure. Understanding this will usher in new energy infrastructure.
- In protein folding, Across-atomic interactions between amino acids, which include hydrogen bonds, electrostatic forces, and van der Waals forces, are crucial for achieving the correct three-dimensional structure of proteins. These interactions influence the protein's function and dictate the biological activity of the protein. This illustrates how the final product depends on complex interactions.
- Researchers are looking into Across-atomic self-assembly, where molecules can spontaneously arrange themselves into complex structures with specific functions. For example, the spontaneous organization of lipids into cell membranes, which are beyond the level of atomic structure. These are vital structures for life, so they require a new level of study to better understand.
- The field of nanotechnology grapples with Across-atomic properties when dealing with nanomaterials, where quantum effects, such as electron tunneling, can influence the material’s behavior on a large scale. These properties arise due to the collective behavior of numerous atoms working in tandem, which leads to unique and useful properties, like in electronic components.