Atoms make up everything in the universe but they're so tiny that you can't see them, even with a microscope. The center of an atom is a nucleus made up of positively charged protons and neutral neutrons. Around the nucleus whirls a cloud of even smaller negatively charged electrons. If an atom was about the size of a football field, its nucleus would be smaller than a grape.
Uses math to understand how atoms work
Find out how Shirley went from studying bees as a kid to studying atoms today!
Follow Shirley on her first physics lesson—building a homemade hot rod!
Make a miniature race car—ready, set, go!
"For me, the world has always been full of mysteries. Studying the physical properties of matter allows me to unlock the secrets of the physical world."