qantum -
n. (pl. quanta)
1 Physics a a discrete quantity of energy proportional in
magnitude to the frequency of radiation it represents. b an
analogous discrete amount of any other physical quantity.
2 a a required or allowed amount. b a share or portion.
quantum jump (or leap)
1 a sudden large increase or advance.
2 Physics an abrupt transition in an atom or molecule from one quantum state to another. quantum mechanics (or theory) Physics a system or theory using the assumption that energy exists in discrete units. [L, neut. of quantus how much]
