English

Noun

quantum limit ‎(plural quantum limits)

1. (physics) The limit on measurement accuracy at quantum scales due to back-action effects.
   • 1995, Vladimir Borisovich Braginskiĭ and Farid Ya. Khalili, Quantum Measurement , ISBN 0521484138, page i:

     "This book is essential reading for all scientists and engineers the potential applications of technology near the quantum limit."

2. (spectroscopy) The shortest wavelength in an X-ray spectrum.
   • 1935, Donald Stover Piston, The Polarization of X-rays from Thin Targets , page 4:

     "The voltage and wave-length at the quantum limit of the spectrum under investigation are denoted by ν₀ and λ₀."

Derived terms

• standard quantum limit (SQL)