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Meson Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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meson

[ˈmɛzən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

particle physics

A meson is a type of subatomic particle that is composed of one quark and one antiquark. Mesons are part of the hadron family, which means they participate in strong interactions. They are unstable and decay into other particles, playing a vital role in mediating the strong nuclear force between nucleons in atomic nuclei.

Synonyms

hadron, subatomic particle.

Examples of usage

  • The pion is a well-known type of meson.
  • Mesons contribute to the forces that hold protons and neutrons together.
  • Scientists study mesons to understand the fundamental forces of nature.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Physics

  • Mesons are classified into two main types: mesons made of quark-antiquark pairs and hybrid mesons which include exotic combinations.
  • Unlike protons and neutrons, mesons are unstable and decay quickly into lighter particles, often within fractions of a second.
  • They play a crucial role in mediating the strong nuclear force that holds atomic nuclei together.

Cultural Impact

  • In science fiction, mesons are often portrayed as powerful energy sources or weapons, reflecting their fundamental role in physics.
  • The discovery and study of mesons paved the way for a deeper understanding of quantum chromodynamics, influencing modern scientific thought and exploration.

Applications in Technology

  • Mesons are utilized in particle accelerators to investigate fundamental questions about matter and forces in the universe.
  • Their interactions are studied in experiments that help improve medical imaging techniques, such as PET scans, which rely on similar particle interactions.

Notable Discoveries

  • The first meson, the pion, was discovered in the 1940s, marking a significant milestone in particle physics.
  • Research on mesons has led to important advances in our theories regarding the strong force, influencing Nobel Prize-winning work in theoretical physics.

Origin of 'meson'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Greek word 'mesos', meaning 'middle', reflecting its position in particle interactions.
  • 'Meson' was first used in the early 20th century, as scientists began to understand subatomic particles.
  • It was coined by the physicist Yoshio Nishina in 1939, linking the concept of intermediate particles with nuclear forces.

The term 'meson' was coined in 1939 by the physicist A. H. M. E. P. D. A. H. (Hugh) M. H. R. W. H. (Hugh) H. W. C. J. The word is derived from the Greek word 'meso', meaning 'middle' or 'intermediate', reflecting the particle's characteristics as intermediate in mass between electrons and baryons (like protons and neutrons). Mesons were discovered during investigations of cosmic rays, where their presence was inferred from various experimental results. Since then, mesons have been a critical focus in particle physics research, providing insights into the structure of matter and the fundamental forces that govern the universe.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,636, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.