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Neutrino: meaning, definitions and examples

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neutrino

 

[njuːˈtrinoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

particle physics

A neutrino is a type of subatomic particle that is electrically neutral and interacts only via the weak nuclear force and gravity. Neutrinos are produced in nuclear reactions, such as in the sun or during supernovae. They are incredibly abundant, yet they rarely interact with matter, making them difficult to detect.

Examples of usage

  • Neutrinos travel through the Earth without any interaction.
  • The sun emits a vast number of neutrinos every second.
  • Neutrino detectors are used in various experiments to study fundamental particles.
  • Researchers detected neutrinos produced in a nearby supernova.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'neutrino' comes from the Italian word 'neutro,' meaning neutral, with the suffix '-ino' indicating something small.
  • The word was first used by physicist Wolfgang Pauli in 1930, who predicted the existence of this particle to explain missing energy in beta decay.

Science

  • Neutrinos are produced in huge quantities during nuclear reactions, such as those that occur in stars, including our Sun.
  • They can pass through ordinary matter almost unaffected, meaning trillions are flying through your body right now without you noticing.
  • Because of their tiny mass and neutral charge, they are among the most abundant particles in the universe, outnumbering electrons by billions.

Pop Culture

  • Neutrinos have been featured in various scientific documentaries, showcasing their mysterious nature and the quest to understand them.
  • In the movie 'The Martian,' neutrinos are mentioned in the context of space exploration and understanding cosmic events.

Technology and Research

  • Scientists use giant detectors, like those in the Super-Kamiokande facility in Japan, to capture and study neutrino interactions.
  • The discovery of neutrino oscillation, where these particles switch types, led to a Nobel Prize in Physics in 2015, reshaping our understanding of particle physics.

Astrophysics

  • Observations of neutrinos from distant supernovae help astronomers understand the life cycle of stars and the processes leading to explosions.
  • Neutrinos are considered messengers from the core of celestial events, providing unique insight into phenomena such as gamma-ray bursts and black holes.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,645, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.