quantum

Related to how very small particles and separate amounts of energy behave.

• She studies quantum physics.
• Quantum computing could help solve complex problems.
• Electrons behave strangely at the quantum level.

Common phrases: quantum physics, quantum computing, quantum mechanics

The smallest separate amount of energy or another physical property that can exist.

• The atom absorbed one quantum of energy.
• Light carries energy in quanta.
• Each quantum has a particular amount of energy.

How to use it: quantum of something (The atom absorbed a quantum of energy.)

Common phrases: energy quantum, quantum of energy

Describing a change or improvement that is extremely large.

• The new engine represents a quantum leap.
• This discovery brought a quantum advance in medical research.
• The internet caused a quantum shift in communication.

Common phrases: quantum leap, quantum shift

Describing a sudden change between separate states, with no stages in between.

• The electron made a quantum jump.
• A quantum transition takes the system directly into another state.
• This quantum leap has no intermediate stage.

Common phrases: quantum jump, quantum transition, quantum leap

The total amount of something, especially money that a court says must be paid.

• The court determined the quantum of damages.
• They disagreed about the quantum of compensation.
• Further evidence is needed to establish the quantum.

How to use it: quantum of something (The judge assessed the quantum of compensation.)

Similar words: amount, quantity, total

Common phrases: quantum of damages, quantum of compensation