If an atom was to reach absolute zero..?

Question

What would it do?...

My theory is that it would simply implode on itself due to the small gravitational forces created between electrons and protons.

Although what would happen to the nucleus?

Acording to Newtons laws it actually would be destroying energy, and causing a reduction in space...So does that mean that deep within the depths of the galaxy where atoms may reach absolute zero...the galaxy is shrinking?

Answer 1

Huh?

The electrons and protons wouldn't lose thier charge at absolute zero...why would it implode?

Answer 2

It is impossible to reach absolute zero, for many reasons, mainly quantum mechanics. If you recall your Heissenberg you should see that it is just impossible.

"There is a force between protons and electrons thats what causes them to repel off of each other, and once the force is gone what happens"

I'm going to concentrate on this. The EM-fundamental interaction would dissapear in your scenario. Well... Let's say this, it goes even farer: What about the quarks? The protons and neutron's themselves?

Let's say this: As E=mc² with E=0 there wouldn't be anything at all. This is how even a total amateur can imagine (not understand, even top-scientists don't UNDERSTAND this stuff) why absolute zero is unreachable as long as there is still space and time.

Answer 3

It would be cold.  You're not destroying energy, just removing it from this particular atom.  You're removing only the thermal energy.   The electric force between protons and electrons is attractive, not repulsive.  I don't see how you would be reducing space or shrinking the galaxy.  Scientists have cooled materials extremely close to absolute zero.  Some materials behave strangely near absolute zero (especially helium), but generally nothing special happens.  It's just cold.