active nucleus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "active nucleus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in scientific or technical contexts, particularly in discussions related to physics, biology, or astronomy, where it refers to a central or essential part that is engaged in activity. Example: "The active nucleus of the cell plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and cellular functions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"This says it's a real active nucleus for its size".

The New York Times - Science

(An active nucleus, spewing out gas and dust, would be more dangerous to approach).Having mapped the surface of the nucleus, Rosetta will release a small lander.

The Economist

The scaling is independent from the mass and accretion rate of an active nucleus.

Advances in Space Research

These features provide important diagnostics on the location and nature of the material surrounding the active nucleus.

Advances in Space Research

The richest structural information can be extracted from NMR spectra since the environment of a given magnetically active nucleus (1H, 13C, 15N, etc).

Journal of Cheminformatics

It is shown that absorption line studies provide a powerful tool to study the properties of the outflowing warm winds around the active nucleus.

Advances in Space Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

NG2 cells would tend to accumulate at a higher density either in a nucleus exhibiting low neuronal activity or at the boundary between highly active nuclei, as the activity between adjacent nuclei is not synchronized.

ASN Neuro

Seyfert galaxy, any of a class of galaxies known to have active nuclei.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These properties are similar to those of other galaxies with active nuclei (e.g., Seyfert galaxies) but on a smaller scale.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Strong infrared emissions also are evident at the centres of many external galaxies, notably spiral systems with active nuclei (e.g., Seyfert galaxies).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Species with linker methylation have small, transcriptionally active nuclei that approach the physical limits of chromatin compaction.

Cell

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "active nucleus" in scientific writing, ensure that the context clearly defines the specific type of nucleus being discussed (e.g., atomic, galactic, cellular) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "active nucleus" as a catch-all phrase. Always specify the type of nucleus you are referring to, as its meaning varies greatly across different scientific disciplines. For instance, use "active galactic nucleus" instead if you mean a supermassive black hole at the center of a galaxy or if you are talking about cell biology, say something like transcriptionally active nucleus instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "active nucleus" typically functions as a noun phrase, where 'active' modifies 'nucleus'. It describes a nucleus that is currently engaged in some form of activity, whether it's nuclear activity in physics or metabolic activity in cell biology. Ludwig confirms this usage across various scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "active nucleus" is a grammatically sound term used across multiple scientific fields to describe a nucleus that is currently engaged in certain activities. As shown by Ludwig, its specific meaning can vary depending on the context, referring to everything from galactic cores to cellular components. Due to its versatile nature, it's crucial to provide clear context when using this phrase to avoid any potential ambiguity. Though the term is correct, it is less frequent. According to Ludwig, it appears mostly in scientific texts and news reports related to science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dynamic center

Focuses on the energetic nature of the core component, implying a hub of activity.

functional core

Emphasizes the operational role of the central component in a system or entity.

operational nucleus

Highlights the active and working state of the nucleus, stressing its functionality.

live core

Suggests that the central component is actively sustaining life or activity.

vigorous center

Indicates that the central part is full of strength and energy.

energetic core

Highlights the energy output and intense activity originating from the central part.

reactive center

Focuses on the component's responsiveness and interaction with its environment.

metabolically active nucleus

Specifically refers to biological activity within the nucleus, emphasizing metabolic processes.

stimulated nucleus

Implies that the nucleus has been activated or prompted to perform certain functions.

working core

Stresses the practical and operational state of the nucleus, emphasizing its current task.

FAQs

How can I describe the "active nucleus" of a galaxy?

You might describe it as a region emitting significant radiation, or as a central engine powering high-energy phenomena. Alternative phrases include '"galactic core"' or '"central black hole"', depending on the specific characteristic you want to emphasize.

What is an "active nucleus" in cell biology?

In cell biology, an "active nucleus" refers to a nucleus engaged in processes like DNA replication or transcription. Alternative descriptions include '"transcriptionally active nucleus"' or '"replicating nucleus"', which specify the kind of activity.

What's the difference between an "active nucleus" and an inactive one?

An "active nucleus" is actively involved in biological processes such as transcription, replication or energy output, while an inactive one isn't. The level of activity can be a result of the absence of key regulators or other factors. You could also refer to an inactive nucleus as '"quiescent nucleus"'.

Is "active nucleus" the same as a cellular 'nucleolus'?

No, "active nucleus" refers to the entire nucleus when it's engaged in metabolic activity. The nucleolus is a distinct structure within the nucleus, responsible for ribosome synthesis. The nucleolus is part of the "active nucleus" but not the other way around.