bohr: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “bohr” mean?
A unit of length in atomic physics equal to the Bohr radius (approximately 5.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A unit of length in atomic physics equal to the Bohr radius (approximately 5.29×10⁻¹¹ metres), named after physicist Niels Bohr.
In informal contexts, sometimes used as a shorthand reference to Niels Bohr, his atomic model, or concepts from quantum mechanics associated with his work.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage; the term is identical in both scientific communities.
Connotations
Purely scientific, with connotations of early quantum theory, atomic structure, and the Copenhagen interpretation.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, confined to technical literature and education.
Grammar
How to Use “bohr” in a Sentence
[measurement] + in bohrsa radius of X bohrVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bohr” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Bohr radius is a fundamental constant.
- He explained the Bohr frequency condition.
American English
- The Bohr model was revolutionary.
- She calculated the Bohr magneton value.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in physics and chemistry textbooks and papers discussing atomic scale.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The primary context; appears in discussions of atomic physics, quantum chemistry, and crystallography.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bohr”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bohr”
- Using 'bohr' as a common noun outside scientific contexts.
- Misspelling as 'bore' in technical writing.
- Confusing the unit with the ångström (1 Å = ~1.89 bohr).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency technical term used almost exclusively in physics and chemistry.
No, it functions almost exclusively as a noun (the unit) or as part of a proper noun/adjectival phrase (Bohr model).
Lowercase 'bohr' refers to the unit of length. Uppercase 'Bohr' refers to the physicist Niels Bohr or is used adjectivally in terms like 'Bohr model'.
Only if you are studying physics or chemistry at an advanced level. It is not necessary for everyday communication.
A unit of length in atomic physics equal to the Bohr radius (approximately 5.
Bohr is usually technical/scientific in register.
Bohr: in British English it is pronounced /bɔː/, and in American English it is pronounced /bɔr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Bohr' as 'bore' a tiny hole—the Bohr radius is the tiny size of a hydrogen atom's simplest orbit.
Conceptual Metaphor
SCALE IS SIZE (the bohr represents a fundamental, minuscule scale of nature).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary field of use for the term 'bohr'?