C1nounscience
US/ˈproʊ.tɑːn/
UK/ˈprəʊ.tɒn/
a tiny particle with a positive charge, found in the center of every atom
In context
Every atom of hydrogen contains one proton and one electron.
The number of protons decides which element an atom belongs to.
Scientists used a beam of protons to treat the tumor.
Words that go with proton
noun + noun
- proton numberThe proton number of carbon is six.
- proton and neutronThe nucleus is made of a proton and a neutron.
- proton beamA proton beam can target a tumor precisely.
- proton therapyProton therapy is used for some kinds of cancer.
noun + preposition
- number of protonsThe number of protons gives the atomic number.
verb + noun
- contain a protonEvery nucleus must contain at least one proton.