quantum mechanics

quantum mechanics

n. (used with a sing. or pl. verb)

Quantum theory, especially the quantum theory of the structure and behavior of atoms and molecules.

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quantum mechanics

A fundamental theory of matter and energy that explains facts that previous physical theories were unable to account for, in particular the fact that energy is absorbed and released in small, discrete quantities (quanta), and that all matter displays both wavelike and particlelike properties, especially when viewed at atomic and subatomic scales. Quantum mechanics suggests that the behavior of matter and energy is inherently probabilistic and that the effect of the observer on the physical system being observed must be understood as a part of that system. Also called quantum physics, quantum theory. Compare classical physics. See also probability wavequantumuncertainty principlewave-particle duality

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

quantum mechanics - the branch of quantum physics that accounts for matter at the atomic level; an extension of statistical mechanics based on quantum theory (especially the Pauli exclusion principle) quantum physics - the branch of physics based on quantum theory wave mechanics - the modern form of quantum theory; an extension of quantum mechanics based on Schrodinger's equation; atomic events are explained as interactions between particle waves