quantum chromodynamics

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction
: a theory of fundamental particles based on the assumption that quarks are distinguished by differences in color (see color entry 1 sense 15) and are held together (as in hadrons) by an exchange of gluons
Quantum chromodynamics equations describe the characteristics and behavior of quarks and the peculiar force that binds different quarks and antiquarks together to create protons, neutrons, and other subatomic particles known as hadrons.I. Peterson

Examples of quantum chromodynamics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The traditional axion arises from the Peccei-Quinn extension to the theory of quantum chromodynamics (QCD), which describes another of the four fundamental forces, the strong force. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein, Scientific American, 1 Apr. 2022 Misunderstanding quantum chromodynamics, a subject many physicists fear, is not at all surprising. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 28 Sep. 2023 More recently, theorists have begun using a new tool to calculate hadronic blobs: lattice quantum chromodynamics (QCD). Daniel Garisto, Scientific American, 10 Aug. 2023 They were originally proposed to ensure that quantum chromodynamics, which describes the behavior of the strong force that holds protons and neutrons together, doesn't break the conservation of charge parity. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 21 Apr. 2023 See all Example Sentences for quantum chromodynamics 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'quantum chromodynamics.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of quantum chromodynamics was in 1975

Dictionary Entries Near quantum chromodynamics

Cite this Entry

“Quantum chromodynamics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quantum%20chromodynamics. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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