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Quantum
A quantum is the minimum amount of any physical property involved in an interaction.
Explanation
The magnitude of a physical property can take on only discrete values consisting of integer multiples of one quantum.
Example 1
A photon ɣ is the quantum of energy as a form of electromagnetic radiation.
Example 2
A phonon is the quantum of energy in vibrations that occur in periodic arrangements of atoms or molecules.
Example 3
A magnon is the quantum of a spin wave. It is an excitation associated with the spin structure of electrons in a crystal lattice.
Example 4
A plasmon is the quantum of plasma oscillation.
Example 5
A roton is a quantum of angular momentum. It is an excitation that describes the macroscopic rotational states of suprafluids.
Example 6
The elementary charge e of a proton is a quantum of electric charge.
Example 7
The hypothetical graviton is the energy quantum of gravitational waves.
Example 8
According the loop quantum gravity theory, interactions create hypothetical space quanta.