Quantum Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈk*w*m*m/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A minimum amount of energy required for a system to change in some way, or a discrete amount of something, such as energy, that cannot be divided into smaller parts.

Examples

• The physicist studied the quantum behavior of subatomic particles.
• Quantum jumps in energy can occur when an electron moves from one energy level to another.

Synonyms

• Packet
• Quanta

Antonyms

• Continuous
• Gradual

Etymology

The word “quantum” comes from the Latin word “quantus,” meaning “how much” or “what amount.” It was first used in physics in the early 20th century to describe the minimum amounts of energy required for certain physical processes.

Usage Notes

The word “quantum” can be used in a variety of contexts, including physics, chemistry, and philosophy. It is often used to describe the minimum amounts of something that can be observed or measured.

Cultural References

• The term “quantum leap” has been used to describe a sudden and significant change or improvement.
• Quantum physics has been a subject of interest in science fiction, inspiring stories and movies.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Quantum leap: a sudden and significant change or improvement.
• Quantum physics: the branch of physics that deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales.

Related Words or Phrases

• Particle: a small unit of matter that has mass and charge.
• Wave: a disturbance that transfers energy through a medium.

Collocations

• Quantum mechanics: the branch of physics that deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales.
• Quantum computing: a type of computing that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations.

Frequency of Use

The word “quantum” is commonly used in scientific and academic contexts, particularly in the fields of physics and chemistry.

Common Misspellings

• Quantom
• Quantom