electron cloud

American  

[i-lek-trahn klaud] / ɪˈlɛk trɑn ˈklaʊd /

noun

1. a mathematically defined region surrounding the nucleus of an atom where electrons are likely to be found.

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Example Sentences

Figure 18.45 Schematic representation of the outer electron cloud of a neutral water molecule.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Although this model is helpful in visualizing atomic structure, in reality, electrons do not travel in fixed orbits, but whiz around the nucleus erratically in a so-called electron cloud.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

One of the leading researchers on electron cloud disruption, Jerome Pressman, had been advising the U.S.

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2013

If nuclear weapons were exploded in the atmosphere as a defense against incoming missiles, the range of this electron cloud would be vast indeed.

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2013

Since each atom is electrically neutral, the number of protons in the nucleus must exactly equal the number of electrons in the electron cloud.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan