quantum mechanics

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: a theory of matter that is based on the concept of the possession of wave properties by elementary particles, that affords a mathematical interpretation of the structure and interactions of matter on the basis of these properties, and that incorporates within it quantum theory and the uncertainty principle

called also wave mechanics

quantum mechanical adjective

quantum mechanically adverb

Examples of quantum mechanics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Gravity is the story of space-time, and Hawking spent many years investigating the deep relationship between space, time and quantum mechanics. —Paul Sutter, Space.com, 19 Mar. 2025

One blow came in the early 1900s with the discovery of quantum mechanics. —Charlie Wood, Quanta Magazine, 7 Mar. 2025

The modern description of the atom can trace its roots to the invention of the prism and the spreading of the solar spectrum into its composite colors, which led to the identification of discrete energy levels in an atom and, finally, the development of quantum mechanics. —Jayson Stewart, IEEE Spectrum, 5 Mar. 2025

Its behavior is described by quantum mechanics, allowing it to be used as a qubit. —John Timmer, Ars Technica, 19 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for quantum mechanics

• biomechanics
• hispanics
• organics
• volcanics
• panics

Medical Definition

quantum mechanics

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: a theory of matter that is based on the concept of the possession of wave properties by elementary particles, that affords a mathematical interpretation of the structure and interactions of matter on the basis of these properties, and that incorporates within it quantum theory and the uncertainty principle

called also wave mechanics

quantum mechanical adjective

quantum mechanically adverb