Definition

A type of atom made of a positive muon and an electron, similar to hydrogen but much lighter and unstable.

Example

Muonium is used in various experiments in particle physics.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of muonium?

Yeah, I learned about it in my physics class. It's fascinating!

Right? It's like a lightweight version of hydrogen.

Exactly! I think it's cool how it exists for such a short time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Muonium is formed from "muon" (from the Greek "muon", a particle name derived from the Greek letter mu, μ) and the suffix "-ium" (used in chemistry to denote a chemical element or compound). The word refers to a short-lived atom-like structure formed from a muon and an electron, resembling hydrogen.

Memory Tip

Think of 'muon', which is a type of particle, and remember that 'muonium' is like a tiny atom made from a muon and an electron, similar to hydrogen.

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