rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryquantumDiscrete physical unit
noun / adjective

quantum

KWON-tum/ˈkwɑːntəm/

A defined amount of a quantity.

A transition to a lower energy level releases one quantum of light.

A small hand-drawn energy-transition vignette on white: TWO short horizontal energy levels, upper above lower; ONE downward arrow connects them, releasing ONE short golden wavy photon symbol to the right.
Etymology
quantumLatinamount; how much

Latin quantum expresses an amount or “how much.” In physics, this general idea was narrowed to the minimum discrete amount of a quantity that can exist.

In context

Science ABC1:05
What is quantum physics? 'Quantum' is a Latin word that literally means 'how much,' but it is used for talking about the minimum amount of some physical entity.
Quantum Mechanics Explained in Ridiculously Simple Words

More examples

  • The sensor detects individual quanta of light.
  • Higher-frequency light carries more energy per quantum.
  • The court determines the quantum of damages owed.

Forms

quantum · quanta · quantums

quantize verb — To restrict a quantity to discrete values.

Similar words

unit
A general measure or individual part, not necessarily indivisible.
amount
Names a quantity without implying a discrete physical unit.