nuclide

nu·clide

noun \ˈnü-ˌklīd, ˈnyü-\

Definition of NUCLIDE

: a species of atom characterized by the constitution of its nucleus and hence by the number of protons, the number of neutrons, and the energy content

— nu·clid·ic \nü-ˈkli-dik, nyü-\ adjective

Origin of NUCLIDE

nucleus + Greek eidos form, species — more at idol

First Known Use: 1947

nu·clide

noun \ˈn(y)ü-ˌklīd\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of NUCLIDE

: a species of atom characterized by the constitution of its nucleus and hence by the number of protons, the number of neutrons, and the energy content

—nu·clid·ic \n(y)ü-ˈklid-ik\ (audio pronunciation) adjective

nuclide

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Species of atom as characterized by the number of protons, neutrons, and the energy state of the nucleus. A nuclide is characterized by its mass number and its atomic number. To be regarded as distinct, a nuclide must have an energy content sufficient for a measurable lifetime, usually more than 10¹⁰ second. Nuclear isomers, which have the same number of protons and neutrons but differ in energy content and radioactivity, are also distinct nuclides. Nuclides are associated with radioactive decay and may be stable or unstable. There are about 1,700 known nuclides, of which about 300 are stable and the rest radioactive.

Variants of NUCLIDE

nuclide or nuclear species