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
Examples of 'quantum state' in a sentence
quantum state
In one quantum state both metals are loaded with incoming electron energy.
The Times Literary Supplement (2011)
And in the other quantum state the metals unload and they tock into a second valence.
The Times Literary Supplement (2011)
When all the electrons return to their natural quantum state, they emit photons in bundles or coherent packets.
Porush, David A Short Guide to Writing About Science (1995)
An atom in a very hot body can release energy, falling to a lower quantum state in the process.
Radford, Tim & Leggett, Jeremy The Crisis of Life on Earth - our legacy from the second millenium (1990)
Typically, a strong energy pulse is sent through a substance with free electrons which are excited to a higher quantum state.
Porush, David A Short Guide to Writing About Science (1995)
It's like the ideas are fluctuating in this great big quantum state of Maybe.