Boson vs Meson - What's the difference?
boson | meson |
(particle) A particle with totally symmetric composite quantum states, which exempts them from the Pauli exclusion principle, and that hence obeys . They have integer spin. Among them are many elementary particles, and some (gauge bosons) are known to carry the fundamental forces. Compare fermion.
(rare, outside, entomology) The mesial plane dividing the body into similar right and left halves.
(obsolete) A member of a group of subatomic particles having a mass intermediate between electrons and protons. (The most easily detected mesons fit this definition.)
(now specifically, particle) An elementary particle that is composed of a quark and an antiquark, such as a kaon or pion. (Mesons composed of rarer quarks are much heavier.)