noun
- a quantum of vibrational energy in a crystal lattice
Usage: physics
Examples
- The physicist studied how phonons carry heat through the crystal.
- Phonons interact with electrons in semiconductor materials.
- The material’s thermal conductivity depends on phonon scattering.
- Researchers measured phonon frequencies using spectroscopy.
- Phonons help explain how sound waves propagate in solids.
- The quantum nature of phonons becomes important at low temperatures.