NUCLEUS Meaning and
Definition
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Nucleus is a noun derived from the Latin word "nūcleus," which translates to "kernel" or "small nut." It is primarily used in the fields of biology, physics, and chemistry to refer to a central and essential part or structure within a larger whole.
In biology, the nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle that exists within eukaryotic cells, acting as their control center. It contains most of the cell's genetic material, including DNA, which is organized into thread-like structures called chromosomes. The nucleus regulates all cellular activities by directing the synthesis of proteins and coordinating cell growth, division, and replication.
In physics, the nucleus refers to the positively charged central region of an atom. It is composed of protons and neutrons, forming the majority of the atom's mass. The number of protons in the nucleus determines the element to which the atom belongs. The nucleus is surrounded by negatively charged electrons moving in orbitals, creating the electronic structure of the atom.
In chemistry, the term nucleus can also refer to a central core or cluster of atoms within a molecule or compound. It represents the foundational structure around which other atoms or groups of atoms are arranged.
Overall, nucleus describes a central, essential, and often prominent part or structure that plays a crucial role in the functioning and organization of biological, physical, or chemical systems.
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1. differentiated mass of protoplasm, the excutive center of the functional activity of the cell. It consists, like the cytoplasm, of a network of un fluid substance (caryolymph or nuclear hyalopalsm); along the course of the linin filaments are small masses or granules of a deeply stainable small masses or granules of a deeply stainable basophilic substance (chromatin). The nucleus also contains one or more minute oxyphilic bodies (nucleoli). 2. A mass of gray matter, composed of gagnlion cells, in any part of the brain or spinal cord. 3. Any substance, foreign body, mucus, crystal, etc., around which a urinary or other calculus is formed.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Anything round which matter has accumulated; that which may form the solid foundation or basis, as the nucleus of an army; the solid centre of any nodule or rounded mass; the central fleshy part of an oval; the body of a comet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of NUCLEUS
The word "nucleus" comes from the Latin word "nucleus" which means "kernel" or "core". It was originally used in the context of a seed or a fruit's core. The Latin term itself derives from the earlier Proto-Indo-European root "*knū-", which means "to stick" or "to be knotty". Over time, "nucleus" came to be used in various scientific fields, particularly in biology, to refer to the central part or core of something.
Similar spelling words for NUCLEUS
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