baryonlike

Baryonlike is an informal, wiki-style label used in particle physics to describe states that resemble baryons in key respects within quantum chromodynamics (QCD). A baryon is a color-neutral bound state of three valence quarks that carries baryon number B = +1. Baryonlike states share these characteristics, either by being three-quark bound states or by being multiquark configurations that effectively behave as a single baryon in interactions and quantum numbers. They are distinguished from meson-like states, which have baryon number zero.

In hadron spectroscopy, the term is used to describe ordinary baryons such as protons and neutrons and the various exotic configurations that carry baryon number +1, including pentaquarks and some hexaquark candidates. The label emphasizes baryon-like quantum numbers and color-neutrality rather than any specific internal structure. In some theoretical approaches, baryonlike states are modeled as bound states of three quarks, as solitons in effective theories at large Nc, or as holographic constructions with a baryon vertex linked to multiple quarks.

In beyond-Standard-Model contexts, baryonlike states can arise in dark sector theories as bound states of dark quarks carrying a conserved dark baryon number, potentially making up dark matter candidates. Observables such as masses, magnetic moments, and decay channels depend on the underlying dynamics and on how closely the state mirrors conventional baryon properties.

Because "baryonlike" is not a formal term with a single precise definition, its meaning varies with discipline and context. It is generally used to indicate qualitative similarity to baryons rather than to propose a new classification. See also: baryon number, baryons, exotic hadrons, pentaquark.