quantum state

noun

, Physics.

1. the condition in which a physical system exists, usually described by a wave function or a set of quantum numbers.

quantum state

noun

1. physics a state of a system characterized by a set of quantum numbers and represented by an eigenfunction. The energy of each state is precise within the limits imposed by the uncertainty principle but may be changed by applying a field of force. States that have the same energy are called degenerate See also energy level

quantum state

1. A description in quantum mechanics of a physical system or part of a physical system. Different quantum states for a physical system show discrete differences in the value of the variables used to define the state. For example, the spin of an isolated electron can take on one of only two values; there are no other quantum states available for the electron and no intermediate values, since spin is quantized . The quantum state is sometimes described by a set of quantum numbers that pick out the appropriate values for describing the state.

Word History and Origins

Origin of quantum state¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

This means that changes made to the quantum state of one particle are reflected in the other, and this property is a key ingredient in both quantum computers and quantum communication.

From Singularity Hub 

Each friend is represented by a simple setup that makes a measurement on the photon, such that the photon takes one of two paths or enters into a superposition of taking both paths at once, depending on the initial quantum state of the photon.

From Quanta Magazine

Remarkably, it demonstrated, among other consequences, why the electrons in an atom don’t all cluster together in the lowest energy quantum state and render it unstable.

From Nautilus

Doing calculations with a quantum computer is a race against time, thanks to the fragility of the quantum states at their heart.

From Singularity Hub 

This is a version of the R-process, taking place constantly, which in general induces small and random changes in the quantum state of the field.

From Nautilus