An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics
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A phenomenon in quantum mechanics whereby a particle can penetrate and cross a potential barrier whose energy is greater than the particle's energy. The tunnel effect, forbidden in classical mechanics, is a direct consequence of the wave nature of material particles. Also called tunneling

M.E. tonel, from M.Fr. tonele, tonnelle "funnel-shaped net," feminine of tonnel,diminutive of tonne "tun, cask for liquids." Sense of "tube, pipe" developed in Eng. and led to sense of "underground passage."

Oskar, → effect; tunel, from Fr. tunnel, as above.