How can we pinpoint position of electrons when we are unable to view them?

My brother has asked this same Q about whether atoms really exist!!LOL

force them against a surface and you know the location and velocity of both when velocity=0 and location=0 then you know both.

We can’t pinpoint the exact location of an electron. There are “clouds of probability” for the valence electrons and the “shape” of these “clouds” varies with each element. Heisenberg and Schroedinger described the phenomena. The act of measuring affects what is being measured.

@Kelly_Obrien… you are correct, we can know either an electron’s position or velocity, but not both. Scientists use to believe that they could mentally “stand outside” of reality and view the results of experiments without having any effect on the outcome of those experiments. With the advent of quantum mechanics, however, we learned that we cannot in fact, separate the observer ( scientist ) from the thing being observed… the very act of making an observation changes the outcome… pinning down the position of an electron will alter the speed, thus making it impossible to know both speed and position at the same time.

@CaptainHarley That reminds me of the double slit experiment. It’s really interesting watching that experiment, it’s like the electrons have a mind of their own, and simply observing them forces the particles to choose a position. I think quantum physics is one of the most fascinating subjects, anyway just thought I’d mention the double slit experiment that you might have been referring to in your answer.

@HumourMe… Indeed. I’ve always been fascinated by some of the implications of quantum mechanics. It’s formed one of the bases of what I believe. If you ever get the chance, read The Conscious Universe. Completely fascinating book.