The term '原子' (yuánzǐ) refers to an 'atom,' which is the basic unit of matter and the defining structure of elements. Atoms consist of a nucleus surrounded by electrons, and they are fundamental to the field of chemistry and physics. In everyday contexts, '原子' can be used in discussions about science, technology, and education.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
yuánzǐ(yuan2zi5) T2
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May 27, 2026
原子yuánzǐ(yuan2zi5)
The term '原子' (yuánzǐ) refers to an 'atom,' which is the basic unit of matter and the defining structure of elements. Atoms consist of a nucleus surrounded by electrons, and they are fundamental to the field of chemistry and physics. In everyday contexts, '原子' can be used in discussions about science, technology, and education.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
'原子' plays a significant role in discussions of atomic theory, which was crucial in the development of modern science and technology in China. The understanding of atoms has influenced various fields including medicine, engineering, and energy production.
Memory Tip
Think of '原' (yuán) as a 'source' or 'origin,' and '子' (zǐ) as 'child' or 'small thing.' Visualize a tiny 'child' (atom) coming from the 'source' of matter, helping you remember that '原子' means 'atom.' The pronunciation 'yuánzǐ' can be imagined as 'Yuan's small creation' in a science lab.
About 原子
原子Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 原子
Podcast: 原子
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AI Study Notes for 原子
Quick Contrast
分子 (fēnzǐ) — use '原子' when referring to the basic unit of matter, whereas '分子' refers to a group of atoms bonded together.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of '原' (yuán) as a 'source' or 'origin,' and '子' (zǐ) as 'child' or 'small thing.' Visualize a tiny 'child' (atom) coming from the 'source' of matter, helping you remember that '原子' means 'atom.' The pronunciation 'yuánzǐ' can be imagined as 'Yuan's small creation' in a science lab.
Usage Notes
Be careful with the pronunciation of '原子' as the second syllable carries a third tone (zǐ). It is often used in academic contexts, so it's best to use it in formal discussions about science rather than casual conversation. Common collocations include '原子能' (atomic energy) and '原子结构' (atomic structure).
HSK Study Tips
At HSK Level 7, students should be able to understand complex scientific terminology, including '原子.' Focus on integrating this vocabulary with other related terms like '分子' (molecule) and '元素' (element) to build a stronger foundation in scientific discourse.
Cultural Note
'原子' plays a significant role in discussions of atomic theory, which was crucial in the development of modern science and technology in China. The understanding of atoms has influenced various fields including medicine, engineering, and energy production.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '原子' with '原料' (raw material), which refers to unprocessed materials. For example, saying '我在研究原料' (I am studying atoms) is incorrect; it should be '我在研究原子' (I am studying atoms).
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 原子
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Cultural Notes for 原子
🏮Cultural insight
'原子' plays a significant role in discussions of atomic theory, which was crucial in the development of modern science and technology in China. The understanding of atoms has influenced various fields including medicine, engineering, and energy production.
Frequently Asked Questions about 原子
'原子' refers to atoms, the smallest units of elements, while '分子' (fēnzǐ) refers to molecules, which are made up of two or more atoms bonded together.
'原子' is primarily used in scientific contexts, so it might not come up in casual conversations unless you are discussing specific topics related to science.
The first syllable '原' (yuán) is pronounced with a rising tone, while '子' (zǐ) is pronounced with a falling tone, so make sure to emphasize the correct tones.
