Definition

A temporary combination of an electron and its antimatter counterpart, a positron, that behaves similarly to a hydrogen atom.

Example

Scientists study positronium to understand the interactions between matter and antimatter.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of positronium?

Yeah, I think it's that particle made of an electron and a positron, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how it resembles a hydrogen atom.

I know! I read it's a short-lived system, which makes it even cooler.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Positronium is formed from "positron" (a particle with a positive charge, derived from "positive" and "electron") and "-ium" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a metallic element or a group of elements). The word refers to a bound state of an electron and its antiparticle, the positron, resembling a hydrogen-like atom.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'positron' being a 'positive' particle paired with an 'electron' — the '-ium' suffix indicates a special state or group, helping you remember that positronium is a unique pairing of these particles.

Visually Confused Words