phonon

American  

[foh-non] / ˈfoʊ nɒn /

noun

Physics.

1. a quantum of sound or vibratory elastic energy, being the analogue of a photon of electromagnetic energy.

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phonon British  

/ ˈfəʊnɒn /

noun

1. physics a quantum of vibrational energy in the acoustic vibrations of a crystal lattice

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phonon Scientific  

/ fō′nŏn′ /

1. The quantum of acoustic or vibrational energy. Phonons, like all quanta in quantum mechanics, have wavelike and particlelike properties. Phonons propagate through the vibrating material at the speed of sound in that material. Phonons are especially useful in mathematical models for calculating thermal and vibrational properties of solids.

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Etymology

Origin of phonon

First recorded in 1930–35; phon- + -on ¹

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

phonon

Boron arsenide experiences unusually weak phonon scattering, which allows wave-based heat transport to continue even at room temperature.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 7, 2026

In the new study, the electric field reduced obstacles that normally interfere with phonon movement.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 11, 2026

Scientists at the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology have now developed a new type of squeezed phonon laser that can precisely control these vibrations at the nanoscale.

From Science Daily ● Mar. 31, 2026

"By pushing and pulling on a phonon laser with light in the right way, we can reduce that phonon laser fluctuation significantly."

From Science Daily ● Mar. 31, 2026

"This phonon laser was the last domino standing that we needed to knock down," Eichenfield said.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 17, 2026

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