Introductory Chemistry (5th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 032191029X
ISBN 13: 978-0-32191-029-5

Chapter 4 - Atoms and Elements - Exercises - Problems - Page 120: 31

Answer

Yes, while most of the atom is made of empty space, touching a solid item does not seem to agree with this. However, the force of repulsion between the atoms of the touching surface (ex. a finger) and the atoms of the solid prevents us from sticking our hand through the empty space.

Work Step by Step

The force of repulsion increases as you get closer, so the protons in our finger repel with protons in solid matter.
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