radiation pressure

Friendly

Explanation of "Radiation Pressure"

Definition: "Radiation pressure" is a noun that refers to the small force that is created when waves (like light or other electromagnetic waves) hit a surface. This pressure pushes against the surface in the direction that the waves are coming from.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced discussions, you might encounter "radiation pressure" in topics like: - Astrophysics: Understanding how stars generate energy. - Engineering: Designing spacecraft that can harness sunlight for propulsion.

Word Variants:

The term "radiation" can be used in other contexts, such as: - Radiate (verb): To emit energy or waves. - Radiant (adjective): Emitting light or heat; shining.

Different Meanings:

• Radiation on its own can refer to any energy emitted in the form of waves or particles. This can include light, heat, or even harmful rays (like X-rays).

Synonyms:

• Light pressure (when specifically referring to light waves)
• Electromagnetic pressure (a broader term that includes all types of electromagnetic waves)

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "radiation pressure," but you might encounter phrases like: - "Under pressure": Feeling stressed or overwhelmed, although this is not related to physical pressure.

Summary:

In summary, "radiation pressure" is a scientific term describing the force exerted by waves on a surface.

Academic

Noun

1. the minute pressure exerted on a surface normal to the direction of propagation of a wave

Synonyms

• corpuscular-radiation pressure