quantum jump


noun

Physics. an abrupt transition of a system described by quantum mechanics from one of its discrete states to another, as the fall of an electron in an atom to an orbit of lower energy.
any sudden and significant change, advance, or increase.
Also called quantum leap.

Origin of quantum jump

First recorded in 1925–30

Scientific definitions for quantum jump

quantum jump

A change from one quantum state to another, as when an electron orbiting a nucleus moves from one shell to another with the loss or gain of a quantum of energy.