recalescence
Definition
Recalescence (noun, uncountable)
1. Physics/Metallurgy: The phenomenon in which a cooling metal or alloy exhibits a temporary rise in temperature due to the release of latent heat during a phase change (e.g., from austenite to ferrite in steel). This causes a brief, visible glow or "re-glow" as the material heats up again before continuing to cool.
- Example: During the heat treatment of steel, recalescence occurs when the metal briefly brightens as it passes through the critical temperature.
Usage Examples
- (The temporary reheating effect during cooling.)
- (A key concept in metallurgical processes.)
Advanced Usage
- "Recalescence point": The specific temperature at which this phenomenon occurs.
- The recalescence point for this alloy is approximately 723°C. (The critical temperature for phase transformation.)
Variants and Related Words
- Recalescent (adjective): exhibiting or relating to recalescence.
- The recalescent behavior of the metal was recorded using a pyrometer. (Describing the property.)
- Recalesce (verb, rare): to undergo recalescence.
- The sample began to recalesce as it cooled past the transformation temperature. (To experience a temporary temperature rise.)
Synonyms
- Re-glow (informal): a temporary increase in brightness during cooling.
- Thermal arrest (related): a pause in temperature change during a phase transition, though this is a broader term.
Related Idioms (None directly apply; the term is technical.)