as a single atom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a single atom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing atomic structure, individuality, or unity in a scientific or metaphorical sense. Example: "The molecules combined to form a compound, but they still functioned as a single atom in their interactions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Because hydrogen is found in nature as a molecule rather than as a single atom, making atomic hydrogen gas is the major expense in growing CVD diamonds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to Lemaître, the universe began as a single atom having an atomic weight equal to the entire mass of the universe, which then decayed by a super-radiative process until atoms of ordinary atomic weight emerged.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hydrogen is rarely found as a single atom.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If the first element exists as a single atom, the prefix mono- is omitted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the a-Ge:H films the FTIR results indicate that these films have hydrogen bonding as a single atom, as did the hydrogenated silicon films.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Quantum dots could be made either from tiny groups of atoms (usually of semiconductor materials) that acted together as a single atom or from Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs), tiny clouds of atoms that shared the same quantum state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

These act as a linear notation like the SMILES format for the whole molecule as well as for connected substructures rooted at a single atom.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Rather than being synthesized in the lab, graphene is separated from three-dimensional samples of graphite, by peeling off ever-thinner layers until the layer is as thin a single atom thick.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

As Zoellner writes, "A single atom of uranium is strong enough to twitch a grain of sand.

The New York Times - Books

After all, it would require Alice to almost instantly measure the spin of a black hole as massive as the sun to within a single atom's spin.

Science Magazine

A cluster of 13 atoms of aluminium, for example, was found to behave as though it is a single atom of the halogen group, which includes chlorine and iodine".Superatoms", as the researchers dub them, are a surprising and fascinating finding for chemists.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex systems or theoretical models, use "as a single atom" to simplify descriptions or highlight fundamental behaviors. For example, in molecular dynamics, treating a group of atoms "as a single atom" can reduce computational complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "as a single atom" when it could lead to misunderstanding about the actual physical scale or complexity of a system. Be clear about whether you are simplifying for modeling purposes or describing a genuine atomic-level phenomenon.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a single atom" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to describe the state or behavior of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a single atom" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase often employed in scientific and technical domains. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and utility for describing simplified models or fundamental atomic behaviors. It's most frequently observed in scientific literature, news articles, and encyclopedias. While alternatives exist, such as "as an individual atom", the choice depends on the intended nuance. When writing, it's crucial to maintain clarity about whether the phrase is used for simplification or to represent genuine atomic-level phenomena. Common errors to avoid include confusing the scale and oversimplifying complex systems. The frequency of use is uncommon, so this phrase is not used on a day to day basis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As an individual atom

Focuses on the individuality of the atom, emphasizing its distinct existence.

As one discrete atom

Highlights the separate and distinct nature of the atom.

As a solitary atom

Emphasizes the isolated nature of the atom.

In the form of a single atom

Specifies the atomic state or configuration.

Existing as one atom

Focuses on the atom's existence as a single entity.

Acting as a unified atom

Highlights the cohesive behavior of the atom.

Functioning as an atomic unit

Stresses the operational role of the atom as a fundamental component.

Representing a single atom

Implies a symbolic or indicative role of the atom.

Analogous to a single atom

Draws a comparison to the properties or behavior of an individual atom.

Equivalent to one atom

Indicates parity in value or function with a single atom.

FAQs

How can I use "as a single atom" in a sentence?

You can use "as a single atom" to describe a group of atoms behaving in a unified way, or to simplify complex models. For example: "In this simulation, the molecule is treated "as a single atom" to reduce computational cost".

What are some alternatives to "as a single atom"?

Alternatives include "as an individual atom", "as one discrete atom", or "as a solitary atom", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "like a single atom" instead of "as a single atom"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "as a single atom" implies a functional equivalence or treatment, while "like a single atom" suggests a comparison or similarity. The best choice depends on the intended meaning.

In what contexts is "as a single atom" commonly used?

"As a single atom" is often used in scientific and technical writing to describe simulations, models, or theoretical concepts where a simplified representation is useful, as well as when discussing single-atom catalysts.