How do we know that most of an atom is empty space? And since that is so, why can’t we just walk through solid objects?

Question

How do we know that most of an atom is empty space? And since that is so, why can’t we just walk through solid objects?

In: 13

Answer 1

We can shoot neutrons or other weak or not charged particles through an atom to measure its size. It will only bounce off if it hits the core.

We can not walk through solids because we are not made out of uncharged particles, the electrons of your bodies atoms repell the electrons of the other object.