ScienceAugust 27, 2026

gluon

GLOO-on

Definition

A subatomic particle that acts as the exchange particle for the strong nuclear force, binding quarks together to form protons and neutrons.

Etymology

Coined in 1962, the term is derived from the English word 'glue' plus the suffix '-on,' which is used in physics to denote subatomic particles.

In the news

The word is used to describe the complex physics topic 'quark-gluon plasma' that competition participants are tasked with explaining. It highlights the rigorous standard of scientific understanding judges require.

Yuri Milner’s Breakthrough Junior Challenge Just Funded a Science Lab in Quito

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The London Economic

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