wavefunction
nounUK /ˈweɪvˌfʌŋkʃən/
US /ˈweɪvˌfʌŋkʃən/
A math rule that tells you where a tiny particle is likely to be.
The wavefunction shows that the electron is most likely to be found near the nucleus.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A mathematical description of a wave, such as a sound or water wave, showing its shape at any moment.
The wavefunction of the vibrating string peaks at its center.
3. In chemistry, a function used to describe the location and energy of electrons in atoms and molecules.
Chemists use the wavefunction to predict how atoms will bond.
4. A complex-valued function whose squared size gives the chance of finding a particle in a given place.
Squaring the wavefunction gives the probability of detecting the particle there.