exclusion principle

noun

Physics.

1. the principle that in any system described by quantum mechanics no two identical particles having spin equal to half an odd integer can be in the same quantum state: first postulated for the electrons in atoms.

exclusion principle

noun

1. See Pauli exclusion principle

exclusion principle

1. See Pauli exclusion principle

Word History and Origins

Origin of exclusion principle¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Understanding the origin of Pauli’s exclusion principle would unlock explanations for all of these deep facts of quotidian life.

From Scientific American

A quantum-mechanical law called the Pauli exclusion principle keeps matter from squishing itself into a point.

From Literature

To avoid some inconsistencies associated with the exclusion principle, it already had been suggested that quarks might come in three “colors.”

From Scientific American

These stars would be supported by the exclusion principle repulsion between neutrons and protons, rather than between electrons.

From Literature

Dozens of others have already pointed out how strategically idiotic is Trump’s exclusion principle.

From Washington Post