How do you think atoms feel about being bunched up against each other? I imagine they don’t enjoy it all that much, but that’s probably because I’m a little claustrophobic. I never really know how to feel when I’m defrosting a chicken: are the atoms relieved to get some space from their neighbours, or do they suffer from separation anxiety? Perhaps allowing my tea to cool on the windowsill is a relief to the tiny particles. Who knows? There’s possibly a range of atom personalities – like humans, some enjoy large crowds and inner-city living, while others are happiest in secluded areas. That thought doesn’t really help with my chicken; a lot of atoms may be pleased with the change in density, but what about the billions I’m upsetting?