The diameter of fundamental subatomic particles like protons and neutrons is approximately 10⁻¹⁵ meters, also known as 1 femtometer (fm).
Subatomic particles are the constituent components of atoms, existing on a scale far smaller than the atom itself. While the overall size of an atom is typically around 10⁻¹⁰ meters, its core particles are orders of magnitude tinier. Protons and neutrons are prime examples of subatomic particles that reside within the atomic nucleus.
Understanding the Scale of Subatomic Particles
Visualizing the dimensions of subatomic particles can be challenging due to their incredibly small size. The following table illustrates the typical diameters of various objects in the subatomic and atomic realm:
| Object | Typical Diameter (m) |
|---|---|
| Protons | 10⁻¹⁵ |
| Neutrons | 10⁻¹⁵ |
| Atomic Nucleus | 10⁻¹⁵ to 10⁻¹⁴ |
| Atom | 10⁻¹⁰ |
As shown, both protons and neutrons share the same order of magnitude in size, each typically measuring about 10⁻¹⁵ meters. The atomic nucleus, which is a composite structure formed by these protons and neutrons, is slightly larger, with its size varying from 10⁻¹⁵ to 10⁻¹⁴ meters depending on the specific atom. In stark contrast, an entire atom is vastly larger than its nucleus, approximately 100,000 times greater in diameter. This significant difference in scale underscores the predominantly empty space that constitutes an atom.
