corpuscular theory

noun

, Physics.

1. the theory that light is transmitted as a stream of particles.

corpuscular theory

noun

1. the theory, originally proposed by Newton, and revived with the development of the quantum theory, that light consists of a stream of particles Compare photon wave theory

Word History and Origins

Origin of corpuscular theory¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

This corpuscular theory of matter may throw light on the laws of chemical combination.

From Project Gutenberg

Sir Isaac Newton's corpuscular theory "explained all the phenomena of light, except one," and he actually assumed, for it "fits."

From Project Gutenberg

Herschel accepted, as did all his cotemporaries, the Newtonian or corpuscular theory of light.

From Project Gutenberg

When we apply the corpuscular theory to the reflection of light we find that it satisfactorily accounts for the phenomenon.

From Project Gutenberg

I refer to the effect of an atomic and gravitative Aether upon Newton's corpuscular theory of light.

From Project Gutenberg