Definition

A type of particle that has a specific property called spin, which can be zero or a whole number. These particles can exist in large numbers in the same state, unlike other types of particles.

Example

The discovery of the Higgs boson was a significant milestone in particle physics.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new particle they discovered called the boson?

Yeah, I read something about it; it's fascinating how it behaves.

I find it amazing that a boson can occupy the same state as others.

Absolutely! It really changes our understanding of physics.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Boson is derived from the name of Indian physicist Satyendra Nath Bose, who contributed to the field of quantum mechanics, combined with the suffix '-on' (from Greek 'on', meaning particle). The term 'boson' refers to a type of particle that follows Bose-Einstein statistics, named in honor of Bose's work in theoretical physics.

Memory Tip

Think of Satyendra Nath Bose, whose name is part of 'boson', to remember that a boson is a type of particle in physics.

Visually Confused Words