Definition

A type of subatomic particle that is the nucleus of a deuterium atom, made up of one proton and one neutron, and has a positive charge.

Example

The deuteron is an important particle in nuclear reactions and fusion processes.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a deuteron?

Yeah, isn't it the nucleus of a deuterium atom?

Exactly! It consists of one proton and one neutron.

That's pretty cool; I didn't know it had such a simple structure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deuteron → It is formed from "deutero-" (from Greek "deuteros", meaning second) and "-on" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a particle or atom). The word "deuteron" refers to the second type of hydrogen nucleus, which contains one proton and one neutron, hence the meaning of second.

Memory Tip

Think of 'deutero-' meaning 'second' to remember that a 'deuteron' is the second type of hydrogen nucleus.

Visually Confused Words