principal quantum number

[ prin-suh-puhl kwon-tuhm nuhm-ber ]

nounPhysics.
  1. the nonnegative, integral quantum number that defines the stationary orbits in the Bohr model of the atom.

Origin of principal quantum number

1
First recorded in 1920–25
  • Also called to·tal quan·tum num·ber [toht-l kwon-tuhm nuhm-ber] /ˈtoʊt l ˈkwɒn təm ˈnʌm bər/ .

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

Scientific definitions for principal quantum number

principal quantum number

[ prĭnsə-pəl ]


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