principal quantum number

[ prin-suh-puhl kwon-tuhm nuhm-ber ]

noun

, Physics.

1. the nonnegative, integral quantum number that defines the stationary orbits in the Bohr model of the atom.

principal quantum number

/ prĭn′sə-pəl /

1. See under quantum number

Word History and Origins

Origin of principal quantum number¹

First recorded in 1920–25