quantum jump

noun

1. Physics. an abrupt transition of a system described by quantum mechanics from one of its discrete states to another, as the fall of an electron in an atom to an orbit of lower energy.
2. any sudden and significant change, advance, or increase.

quantum jump

1. A change from one quantum state to another, as when an electron orbiting a nucleus moves from one shell to another with the loss or gain of a quantum of energy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of quantum jump¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

I have something to tell you,” said Brandon grinning, “about the quantum jump.

From Project Gutenberg