[foh-ton] 
| a quantum of electromagnetic radiation, usually considered as an elementary particle that is its own antiparticle and that has zero rest mass and charge and a spin of one. Symbol: γ |
| pho·ton (fō'tŏn') n.
|
The quantum, or bundle of energy, in which light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation are emitted. (See atom.)
photon pho·ton (fō'tŏn')
n.
The quantum of electromagnetic energy, generally regarded as a discrete particle having zero mass, no electric charge, and an indefinitely long lifetime.
| photon (fō'tŏn') Pronunciation Key
The subatomic particle that carries the electromagnetic force and is the quantum of electromagnetic radiation. The photon has a rest mass of zero, but has measurable momentum, exhibits deflection by a gravitational field, and can exert a force. It has no electric charge, has an indefinitely long lifetime, and is its own antiparticle. See Note at electromagnetic radiation. See Table at subatomic particle. |
tɒn