Airlock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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airlock
[ˈɛrˌlɒk ]
Definition
space travel
An airlock is a sealed chamber that allows for the transfer of people or objects between two different environments, typically one that is pressurized and the other that is at a different pressure or vacuum. Airlocks are crucial in space missions, as they enable astronauts to exit their spacecraft into the vacuum of space safely. They prevent the loss of air pressure from the habitable area while allowing for the safe passage of crew and equipment. Airlocks are also used in submarines and certain industrial applications where maintaining pressure is vital.
Synonyms
chamber, locking mechanism, pressure chamber.
Examples of usage
- The astronauts entered the airlock before exiting the spacecraft.
- We need to check the airlock for any leaks.
- The airlock maintained pressure while the door was opened.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Space Exploration
- Airlocks allow astronauts to exit a spacecraft without letting all the air out, crucial for spacewalks.
- The International Space Station has multiple airlocks for various tasks and astronauts to switch between different environments.
- In space, airlocks are essential for preventing contamination of both the spacecraft and spacesuits.
Science and Engineering
- Airlocks are not only used in space but also in research labs to handle sensitive materials that require a controlled environment.
- They utilize pressure differences to ensure safe transitions between different atmospheric conditions.
Cultural References
- Airlocks commonly appear in science fiction films and books, depicting life aboard spaceships or futuristic settings.
- Famous movies like 'Gravity' and 'The Martian' showcase airlocks as crucial elements for astronauts to navigate space.
Technology
- In modern submarines, airlocks help submariners move between the underwater environment and the internal air, similar to those used in spacecraft.
- Advanced airlocks can have automated systems that manage air pressure adjusting without user intervention.
Origin of 'airlock'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'airlock' comes from 'air' meaning the gases we breathe and 'lock' referring to a secure entrance.
- First used in the early 20th century, the word reflects advancements in technology and exploration.
The term 'airlock' originated from the combination of the words 'air' and 'lock'. The word 'air' has its roots in the Old French word 'air', which denotes the atmosphere and the gaseous substance surrounding the Earth. The word 'lock' comes from the Old English 'locc', meaning to enclose or secure. The concept of an airlock emerged in the context of various engineering applications, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as technology advanced and the need for secure environmental transitions became apparent. The first practical airlock designs were implemented in submarine technology, with subsequent adaptations for space exploration, especially during the Cold War when manned space missions became a priority.