Definition

A type of particle that is the opposite of a nucleon, which includes protons and neutrons.

Example

In particle physics, an antinucleon is created during certain high-energy collisions.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an antinucleon?

No, what’s that?

It's actually the antiparticle of a nucleon, pretty interesting stuff.

That does sound cool! I love learning about particles.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antinucleon is formed from "anti-" (meaning against or opposite) and "nucleon" (from Latin "nucleus", meaning kernel or core, combined with the suffix "-on" used in particle physics to denote a particle). The term refers to a particle that is the opposite of a nucleon, such as an antiproton, which has the same mass as a proton but opposite charge.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against or opposite, and 'nucleon' referring to a core particle — this helps you remember that an antinucleon is a particle that opposes a nucleon.

Visually Confused Words