matrix mechanics: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “matrix mechanics” mean?
An early formulation of quantum mechanics using matrices to represent physical quantities and their relationships.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An early formulation of quantum mechanics using matrices to represent physical quantities and their relationships.
A mathematical framework in physics where observable quantities are represented by matrices, and the time evolution of quantum systems is described by matrix equations; historically contrasted with wave mechanics.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No substantive differences in meaning or usage between British and American English in technical contexts.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse; used exclusively in advanced physics contexts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “matrix mechanics” in a Sentence
Matrix mechanics [verb] that...In matrix mechanics, [subject] [verb]...[Subject] is described/formalised using matrix mechanics.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “matrix mechanics” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [no standard verb form]
American English
- [no standard verb form]
adverb
British English
- [no standard adverb form]
American English
- [no standard adverb form]
adjective
British English
- The matrix-mechanics formalism was groundbreaking.
American English
- His matrix-mechanics approach differed from Schrödinger's.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used exclusively in advanced physics textbooks, history of science papers, and theoretical physics research.
Everyday
Not used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Core term in quantum physics history and foundational discussions; sometimes contrasted with wave mechanics in pedagogy.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “matrix mechanics”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “matrix mechanics”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “matrix mechanics”
- Using plural verb with 'matrix mechanics' (it is singular: 'Matrix mechanics is...').
- Misspelling as 'matrix mecanics'.
- Confusing it with the film 'The Matrix' in non-technical writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Werner Heisenberg, with key contributions from Max Born and Pascual Jordan, in 1925.
Its core ideas are integrated into modern quantum mechanics, but the specific historical formulation is mainly studied in advanced courses and history of science.
Matrices and linear algebra, specifically representing physical observables as matrices that do not necessarily commute.
It introduces inherent uncertainty and probabilistic outcomes, replacing definite trajectories with matrix operations governing probabilities of measurement results.
An early formulation of quantum mechanics using matrices to represent physical quantities and their relationships.
Matrix mechanics is usually technical/scientific in register.
Matrix mechanics: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmeɪtrɪks mɪˈkænɪks/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmeɪtrɪks məˈkænɪks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[none applicable]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
MATRIX MECHANICS: Mathematics And Tables Representing Interactions eXperimentally – Mechanics Explains Complex Atomic Nature In Concrete Systems.
Conceptual Metaphor
PHYSICAL LAWS ARE MATHEMATICAL OPERATIONS; NATURE IS AN ALGEBRAIC STRUCTURE.
Practice
Quiz
Matrix mechanics is primarily contrasted with which other formulation of quantum mechanics?