FREE ELECTRON Meaning and
Definition
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A free electron refers to an electron that is not bound to an atom or molecule. In other words, it is an electron that has the freedom to move independently throughout a material or space. Unlike electrons tightly bound within the atomic structure of an atom, free electrons are not confined to a specific energy level or orbital and are not localized to a particular region or nucleus.
Free electrons are typically found in conductive materials such as metals, where they play a crucial role in conducting electric current. Due to their unbound nature, free electrons are loosely held by the nucleus and can be easily excited by external forces, such as an electric field or thermal energy. These excited electrons can acquire kinetic energy and move through the material, aiding in the flow of electric charge.
In addition to their contribution in conducting electricity, free electrons also play a significant role in other phenomena such as heat conduction, magnetism, and optical properties of materials. Their ability to move freely allows them to participate in various interactions with other particles, influencing the behavior and properties of matter.
Understanding the behavior and characteristics of free electrons is crucial in fields like solid-state physics, quantum mechanics, and materials science, as it provides insights into the electrical, thermal, and optical properties of materials and enables the design and development of various technological applications.
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One of the electrons existing between the atoms of a metal to the presence of which the electrical conductivity of the metal is due.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FREE ELECTRON
- dree electron
- cree electron
- vree electron
- gree electron
- tree electron
- rree electron
- feee electron
- fdee electron
- ffee electron
- ftee electron
- f5ee electron
- f4ee electron
- frwe electron
- frse electron
- frde electron
- frre electron
- fr4e electron
- fr3e electron
- frew electron
Etymology of FREE ELECTRON
The term "free electron" has its origins in the field of physics. The word "electron" itself comes from the Greek word "ēlektron", which means "amber". It was derived from the observation that when amber is rubbed, it generates an electric charge. The term "free" refers to an electron that is not associated or bound to an atom, and is therefore free to move and participate in electrical conduction. The concept of free electrons in physics was first introduced by the British physicist Sir J.J. Thomson in the late 19th century.
Similar spelling word for FREE ELECTRON
