Nuclei Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚛️
nuclei
[ˈnjuː.kliː.aɪ ]
Definition
science, biology
Nuclei are the plural form of nucleus, referring to the central part of an atom that contains protons and neutrons. In cell biology, the nucleus is the membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell's genetic material. Nuclei can also refer to a group of neurons in the central nervous system that serve a specific function.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The nuclei of different elements have varying numbers of protons.
- The cell nucleus controls gene expression.
- Nuclei in the brain play a crucial role in regulating behavior.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Nuclei are made up of protons, which have a positive charge, and neutrons, which have no charge, together making them the heart of an atom.
- The number of protons in a nucleus determines the element and its properties, such as whether it's gold, oxygen, or carbon.
- Nuclei interact through strong nuclear forces, which are responsible for holding the protons and neutrons together despite their charges.
Psychology
- The concept of 'nucleus' can also refer metaphorically to the central aspects of personality or behavior in psychological studies.
- Understanding the 'nucleus' of personality traits helps psychologists identify what drives an individual’s actions.
- Some theories suggest that the core self or ego acts as a nucleus around which various aspects of identity revolve.
Pop Culture
- Sci-fi movies often depict aliens or advanced civilizations harnessing the power of atomic nuclei, playing on the idea of enormous energy.
- In popular video games, players often encounter elements or powers named after nuclei, reflecting their importance in gameplay.
- The term 'nucleus' has been used in various TV shows to symbolize central ideas or themes, reinforcing its core meaning.
Education
- In high school science classes, students often perform experiments to observe the properties of atoms and their nuclei.
- Nuclear technology is a key part of modern energy production, which is taught in engineering and physics programs worldwide.
- Understanding the structure of nuclei is fundamental to fields like chemistry and physics, laying the groundwork for advanced study.
Origin of 'nuclei'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'nucleus' comes from the Latin word for 'kernel' or 'seed', indicating its central role.
- It was first used in the context of biology in the mid-19th century to describe the central part of a cell.
- In a scientific context, learning about nuclei became common in the early 20th century during studies of atomic structure.
The word 'nucleus' comes from the Latin term 'nucleus,' meaning 'kernel' or 'seed.' The term was first used in a scientific context in the early 19th century to describe the central part of an atom, following the discovery of the atom and its structure. As the understanding of atomic structure evolved, the term's usage expanded to include biological contexts, specifically in reference to cell biology. In the late 19th century, with advancements in microscopy and cell theory, the nucleus was identified as the control center of the cell, housing genetic material. The plural form 'nuclei' maintains the Latin retainment of structure and is commonly used in both scientific and educational contexts, particularly in biology, chemistry, and physics.