Scientists examining potassium have discovered a new state of physical matter where atoms can exist as both solid and liquid at the same time. The research is said to clear up whether there was a distinct state of matter or the atom structures represented a transition between two stages – whether solid, liquid or gas. Tests were carried out on the “simple metal”, such as applying high pressures and temperatures, with powerful computer simulations used to study what was known as the chain-melted state. Experts from the University of Edinburgh believe more than half a dozen other elements – including sodium and bismuth – are capable of existing in this new state.
Atoms can exist as both solid and liquid in `new state´ discovered by scientists
Published on: April 10, 2019 2:01 AM