THE ATOMISTS {Leucippus & Democritus} Atoms are the stuff of which the universe is made. All atoms are alike as far as quality is concerned. Some atoms have hooks, others eyes, and still others grooves, humps, or depressions. Atoms unite in different ways and in different numbers. Each atom has motion inside it so that it moves of it's own accord and attaches itself to other atoms. Everything that changes comes from the mingling and separating of atoms and the atoms never change. Atoms are eternal, minutely small, and all alike. Real change of an atom is not possible. 
This group of theorists, far before their time, came up with the ideas we now use in chemistry - the elements. The time frame between the first philosophers and the Atomists was approximately 250 years. In that time they resolved that the universe was composed by the uniting in various ways and in various numbers of tiny atoms, which were all alike. This theory was very close to valid. Today we know the atom is made of neutrons and protons and electrons (which are the same in all atoms) that combine in different numbers to make up the elements we know today. Barnes & Noble, Inc. |