Quark: meaning, definitions and examples

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quark

 

[kwɑrk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

physics particle

A quark is an elementary particle and a fundamental constituent of matter. Quarks combine to form composite particles called hadrons, the most stable of which are protons and neutrons, which make up atomic nuclei.

Examples of usage

  • Quarks are essential in the construction of protons and neutrons.
  • The study of quarks is a fundamental part of particle physics.
  • Quarks come in six flavors: up, down, charm, strange, top, and bottom.
  • In quantum chromodynamics, quarks are subjected to the strong force.
Context #2 | Noun

dairy product

Quark is a type of fresh dairy product, similar to cheese, that has a smooth and creamy texture. It is rich in protein and often used in cooking, baking, and as a spread.

Synonyms

cheese, curd, dairy product.

Examples of usage

  • Quark is often used as a base for cheesecakes.
  • You can spread quark on toast for a light snack.
  • Many recipes for dips include quark for creaminess.
  • In Germany, quark is a popular ingredient in desserts.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'quark' was first coined by physicist Murray Gell-Mann in 1964, inspired by a line from James Joyce's book 'Finnegans Wake'.
  • Joyce's line included the phrase 'Three quarks for muster mark,' leading to the naming of three types of quarks: up, down, and strange.

Science

  • Quarks are never found alone in nature; they combine in groups to form particles called hadrons, such as protons and neutrons.
  • There are six types (flavors) of quarks: up, down, charm, strange, top, and bottom, each with unique properties.
  • Quarks have a property known as 'color charge', which is related to the strong force that holds them together within protons and neutrons.

Pop Culture

  • In the long-running animated series 'The Big Bang Theory', the characters frequently mention quarks in discussions about particle physics.
  • The term has appeared in various sci-fi literature, often representing advanced theoretical concepts of matter.

History

  • The discovery of quarks was part of the development of the Standard Model of particle physics, which describes how all fundamental particles interact.
  • Proposals leading to the quark model helped resolve inconsistencies in particle physics, leading to a deeper understanding of subatomic structures.

Technology

  • Research on quarks and their interactions has paved the way for advancements in technologies like particle accelerators, which probe fundamental particles.
  • Understanding quarks contributes to fields like quantum computing and materials science, influencing future technological innovations.

Translations

Translations of the word "quark" in other languages:

🇵🇹 quark

🇮🇳 क्वार्क

🇩🇪 Quark

🇮🇩 quark

🇺🇦 кварк

🇵🇱 kwark

🇯🇵 クォーク

🇫🇷 quark

🇪🇸 quark

🇹🇷 kuark

🇰🇷 쿼크

🇸🇦 كوارك

🇨🇿 kvark

🇸🇰 kvark

🇨🇳 夸克

🇸🇮 kvark

🇮🇸 kvarkur

🇰🇿 кварк

🇬🇪 ქვარკი

🇦🇿 kvark

🇲🇽 quark

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,099, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.