How many atoms are in

the observable universe?

By Harry Baker - Staff Writer 6 days ago

Luckily, we don't have to count them

one by one.
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(Image credit: Shutterstock)

All matter in the universe — no matter how big,

small, young or old — is made up of atoms. 
Each of these building blocks consists of a
positively charged nucleus, made up of protons
and neutrons, and negatively charged orbiting
electrons. The number of protons, neutrons and
electrons an atom has determines which element
it belongs to on the periodic table and influences
how it reacts with other atoms around it.
Everything you see around you is just a
configuration of different atoms interacting with
one another in unique ways.
So, if everything is made of atoms, do we know
how many atoms are in the universe?