quantum definition - Dictionary

Dictionary

quan·tum [ kwóntəm ]

noun (plural quan·ta [ kwóntə ])

Definition:

1. smallest quantity of energy: the smallest discrete quantity of a physical property such as electromagnetic radiation or angular momentum

2. smallest unit: the smallest unit used to measure a physical property. For example, the quantum of electromagnetic radiation is the photon.

3. quantity: a required quantity or amount, especially an amount of money paid in recompense

4. particular amount: a portion or allotment

adjective

Definition:

major: sudden, dramatic, and significant

[Early 17th century. < Latin, form of quantus "how much"]

quan·tal [ kwónt'l ] adjective