The word "langley" has a couple of meanings, but one of the most common uses is as a noun in the context of science and aviation.
Definition:
Langley (noun): This refers to a unit of measurement for solar radiation, which is the energy received from the sun. One langley is equal to one calorie per square centimeter.
Langley (proper noun): This also refers to Samuel Langley, an American astronomer and aviation pioneer who lived from 1834 to 1906. He invented a device called the bolometer, which measures energy from radiation. He also worked on the design of early aircraft.
Usage Instructions:
When using "langley" in the context of solar radiation, it is often used in scientific discussions or research.
When referring to Samuel Langley, you might mention his contributions to astronomy or aviation.
Examples:
Solar Radiation: "The scientists measured the solar radiation in langleys to understand how much energy the solar panels were receiving."
Samuel Langley: "Samuel Langley made significant contributions to the field of aviation in the early 20th century."
Advanced Usage:
In scientific papers or discussions, you might encounter terms like "langley per hour" when measuring radiation over time.
When discussing historical developments in aviation, you might analyze Langley’s impact on modern flight.
Word Variants:
Different Meanings:
Synonyms:
For the unit of measurement, there are no direct synonyms, but you might see "calorie per square centimeter" used in similar contexts.
For the historical figure, "inventor" or "pioneer" can be used in a broader sense, but they do not specifically refer to Samuel Langley.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
Summary:
In summary, "langley" can refer to a unit of solar radiation or to an important figure in the history of aviation and astronomy, Samuel Langley.