Electron: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

electron

 

[ ɪˈlɛktrən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

particle physics

An electron is a subatomic particle that carries a negative charge. It is one of the fundamental components of atoms, which also include protons and neutrons. Electrons are found in various energy levels around the atomic nucleus. They play a crucial role in chemical bonding and electricity, as they are the particles that flow in a circuit. Understanding electrons is key to grasping many concepts in physics and chemistry.

Examples of usage

  • Electrons travel faster than light in certain conditions.
  • The electric field influences the motion of electrons.
  • Electrons can exhibit both particle and wave-like properties.
  • Atoms are typically composed of positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons.

Translations

Translations of the word "electron" in other languages:

🇵🇹 elétron

🇮🇳 इलेक्ट्रॉन

🇩🇪 Elektron

🇮🇩 elektron

🇺🇦 електрон

🇵🇱 elektron

🇯🇵 電子 (でんし)

🇫🇷 électron

🇪🇸 electrón

🇹🇷 elektron

🇰🇷 전자 (전자)

🇸🇦 إلكترون

🇨🇿 elektron

🇸🇰 elektrón

🇨🇳 电子 (diànzǐ)

🇸🇮 elektron

🇮🇸 rafmagnsfrumeind

🇰🇿 электрон

🇬🇪 ელექტრონი

🇦🇿 elektron

🇲🇽 electrón

Etymology

The word 'electron' comes from the Greek word 'ēlektron,' which means amber, a substance known from ancient times for its ability to attract small objects when rubbed. The term was coined in the late 19th century as scientists began to discover the properties of this newly identified particle. The systematic study of electricity and atomic structure led to a deeper understanding of the role of electrons in atomic phenomena. In 1897, J.J. Thomson discovered the electron, establishing it as a fundamental unit of electric charge and marking a significant advancement in the field of atomic theory. The concept of the electron and its charge became central to the development of quantum mechanics and modern physics.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,439, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.