ScienceAugust 11, 2026

axion

AK-see-on

Definition

A hypothetical, ultralight elementary particle that is a primary candidate for dark matter.

Etymology

The name was coined in 1977 by physicist Roberto Peccei and Helen Quinn, inspired by a brand of laundry detergent because the particle was theorized to help 'clean up' a specific problem in quantum chromodynamics.

In the news

In the article, the axion is the specific particle Jessica Fry is trying to detect to explain the missing matter in the universe. Its potential discovery would solve a major astrophysical mystery.

On Hunt For Dark Matter

Read the full article ↗

Mirage News

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