Glossary - Q

quantum

A very small quantity.

quantum gravity

The theory that purports to unify two branches of physics - quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity, to give a consistent description of nature over all time, mass and length scales. Sometimes referred to as TOE -"Theory of Everything".

quantum mechanics

The branch of physics that describes nature at small scales. The formulation of quantum mechanics is considered one of the greatest intellectual achievements of 20^th century, with great scientists like Dirac, Einstein, Bohr amongst many others contributing to its development.

quark

Quarks are elementary particles that make up protons and neutrons in atomic nuclei.