noun
nucleon
NYOO-klee-on
Nucleon (noun) means a proton or a neutron, especially when considered as a building block of an atomic nucleus. Example: “An atomic nucleus is made up of nucleons packed tightly together.”
noun
1
technical A proton or a neutron, especially when considered as a building block of an atomic nucleus.
"An atomic nucleus is made up of nucleons packed tightly together."
"The number of nucleons in an atom determines its mass number."
"Physicists study how nucleons interact through the strong nuclear force."
How to use nucleon
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA nucleon is just a proton or a neutron, the particles packed inside an atom's nucleus.
When to use it
This word belongs to physics and chemistry and rarely appears outside technical writing.
Memory tip
Remember that nucleon is a family name for two particles, proton and neutron, not a third particle of its own.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
number of nucleons
bound nucleons
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
An atomic nucleus is made up of _____ packed tightly together.
Etymology
From nucleus + -on.
Rhymes for nucleon
See all rhymes for nucleon →Frequently asked questions
What is a nucleon in physics?
It is the general term for either of the two particles found in an atomic nucleus, the proton and the neutron.
Is a nucleon the same as a proton?
No, nucleon is an umbrella term covering both protons and neutrons, not just one of them.
How did the word nucleon get its name?
It was built from nucleus plus the ending -on.
What is the meaning of nucleon?
"nucleon" (noun) means a proton or a neutron, especially when considered as a building block of an atomic nucleus.
