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How to Say "atomic" in Spanish

English → Spanish

atómico

adjectiveB1general
Use 'atómico' when referring to atoms themselves, atomic weight, or the general concept of being related to atoms.

Examples

El científico explicó el peso atómico de los elementos.

The scientist explained the atomic weight of the elements.

nuclear

noo-klee-ARnuˈkleaɾ

adjectiveB2general
Use 'nuclear' when specifically referring to the energy or processes originating from the nucleus of an atom, such as nuclear power or bombs.
A simple, colorful illustration of an atomic structure, featuring three electrons orbiting a central nucleus.

Examples

El reactor nuclear genera energía sin emitir carbono.

The nuclear reactor generates energy without emitting carbon.

El acuerdo limitó el desarrollo de armas nucleares.

The agreement limited the development of nuclear weapons.

Always the same

As an adjective, 'nuclear' does not change form based on whether the thing it describes is masculine (el) or feminine (la). It only changes to 'nucleares' when referring to plural things.

Atómico vs. Nuclear

Learners often use 'atómico' when they mean 'nuclear.' Remember that 'atómico' is broader, referring to atoms in general, while 'nuclear' specifically relates to the atom's core and its energy.

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