Definition

A type of subatomic particle that is made up of three quarks and is affected by the strong force, typically having a greater mass than other particles like mesons.

Example

Protons and neutrons are examples of baryons found in the nucleus of an atom.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a baryon?

I think so, but I'm not sure what it really is.

It's a type of subatomic particle that consists of three quarks.

Oh, that's interesting! I didn't know they were that complex.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Baryon → It is formed from "barys" (from Greek, meaning heavy) and the suffix "-on" (used in particle physics to denote a particle). The word "baryon" refers to a type of subatomic particle that is heavy compared to other particles, such as electrons.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for heavy, 'barys', to remember that a baryon is a heavy particle in the realm of physics.

Visually Confused Words