Particles are tiny bits of matter that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. They can be made up of atoms, ions, molecules, or even subatomic particles such as protons, neutrons, and electrons. Synonyms for particles include specks, grains, granules, molecules, atoms, bits, crumbs, flecks, fragments, pieces, scraps, shreds, slivers, and smidgens. Other common synonyms include dust, powder, and debris, which are often used to describe particles that are airborne or have settled on surfaces. Regardless of their size or composition, particles play a vital role in numerous fields of research, from materials science to environmental sciences.