Definition

1. Noun:
   • A pair of equal and opposite electric charges or magnetic poles separated by a small distance: In physics, a "dipole" is a fundamental concept describing a system with two equal but opposite poles or charges that are separated by a finite distance.
   • An aerial half a wavelength long consisting of two rods connected to a transmission line at the center: In radio and telecommunications, a "dipole" is a common type of antenna made of two conductive elements.

Usage and Examples

• Physics Context:

  • A water molecule is a classic example of an electric dipole because of its uneven charge distribution.
  • The magnetic field around a bar magnet can be modeled as originating from a magnetic dipole.

• Telecommunications Context:

  • The most basic antenna for a radio transmitter is a simple dipole.
  • We installed a dipole on the roof to improve the FM radio reception.

Advanced Usage

• "Dipole moment": A vector quantity that measures the strength and orientation of a dipole. It is the product of the charge magnitude and the distance separating the charges.

  • The dipole moment of the molecule determines its polarity.

• "Dipole-dipole interaction": A force of attraction between the positive end of one polar molecule and the negative end of another polar molecule.

  • Dipole-dipole interactions are weaker than ionic bonds but stronger than London dispersion forces.

Variants and Related Words

• Dipolar (adj): Having the characteristics of or relating to a dipole.

  • The compound has a dipolar structure.

• Dipole antenna (n): The full term for the antenna type, often shortened to just "dipole."

Synonyms

• Doublet (used in some physics contexts, especially for antennas).
• Electric doublet (specifically for electric dipoles).

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Magnetic dipole: A closed circulation of electric current, like a tiny loop of current or a bar magnet.
• Electric dipole: A separation of positive and negative charges.
• Dipole field: The characteristic field pattern produced by a dipole.

Noun

1. an aerial half a wavelength long consisting of two rods connected to a transmission line at the center
2. a pair of equal and opposite electric charges or magnetic poles separated by a small distance