graviton

American  

[grav-i-ton] / ˈgræv ɪˌtɒn /

noun

Physics.

1. the theoretical quantum of gravitation, usually assumed to be an elementary particle that is its own antiparticle and that has zero rest mass and charge and a spin of two.

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graviton British  

/ ˈɡrævɪˌtɒn /

noun

1. a postulated quantum of gravitational energy, usually considered to be a particle with zero charge and rest mass and a spin of 2 Compare photon

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graviton Scientific  

/ grăv′ĭ-tŏn′ /

1. A hypothetical particle postulated in supergravity theory to be the quantum of gravitational interaction, mediating the gravitational force. Like all force carriers, the graviton is a boson. It is presumed to have an indefinitely long lifetime, zero electric charge, a spin of 2, and zero rest mass (thus travelling at the speed of light). The graviton has never been detected.

2. See also supersymmetry See Table at subatomic particle

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Etymology

Origin of graviton

First recorded in 1940–45; gravit(y) + -on ¹

Example Sentences

In this theory, vibrating strings would create gravitons, tiny particles that act under quantum mechanical laws but carry gravitational force.

From Scientific American

The emptiness of the vacuum in quantum theory belies a sea of particles—photons, electrons, gravitons, and more—that conspire to make empty space feel empty.

From Scientific American

They are even responsible for gravity—a hypothetical particle that carries the gravitational force, a “graviton,” is an inevitable consequence of the theory.

From Scientific American

The words “graviton” and “biotechnician,” for example, first appeared in science fiction sources before being adopted in the real world.

From New York Times

His simulation suggests they do: when gravitons gather densely enough, eventually some of them turn into a burst of light particles.

From Scientific American