Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Dissipation: meaning, definitions and examples

💨
Add to dictionary

dissipation

 

[ˌdɪsɪˈpeɪʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

energy loss

Dissipation refers to the process by which energy is scattered or wasted in the form of heat or other non-recoverable forms. It often describes the gradual loss of energy from a system, making it less efficient over time. In physics, it is often associated with thermodynamics, where energy losses result in a decrease in available work. It can also refer to the vanishing of substances or the dissipation of energy within a material. Overall, dissipation highlights the tendency for systems to move towards equilibrium, often resulting in diminished energy efficiency.

Synonyms

dispersion, dissolution, scattering, waste.

Examples of usage

  • The dissipation of heat in the engine reduced its efficiency.
  • Energy dissipation occurs in various physical systems.
  • The dissipation of wave energy led to calm seas.
  • In a closed system, dissipated energy cannot be fully recovered.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'dissipare', meaning 'to scatter'.
  • It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe the act of wasting or scattering energy.
  • In older texts, it was often associated with the waste of resources or talents.

Science

  • In physics, dissipation often refers to the conversion of energy into a form that cannot be used, like heat.
  • The phenomenon of energy dissipation is essential in understanding thermodynamics, where systems naturally move towards equilibrium.
  • Dissipative structures are systems that maintain their organization by exchanging energy with their surroundings, crucial in ecology.

Psychology

  • Dissipation can refer to mental states where focus or energy is scattered, leading to feelings of distraction and aimlessness.
  • The concept is often discussed in relation to managing attention and energy levels, particularly in stress management.
  • Some psychological perspectives view dissipation as a potential coping mechanism during overwhelming situations.

Cultural References

  • In literature and film, characters who engage in dissipation often symbolize a loss of direction or purpose in life.
  • Proverbial phrases like 'the dissipation of youth' highlight themes of fleeting time and the consequences of indulgence.
  • Artists sometimes explore dissipation as a theme, symbolizing the transient nature of existence and experiences.

Environmental Studies

  • Dissipation plays a role in ecological studies; for example, energy dissipation in food webs reflects efficiency in energy transfer.
  • Understanding how energy dissipates in ecosystems helps scientists develop strategies for conservation.
  • The dissipation of pollutants in the environment refers to how substances spread and dilute over time, affecting ecological health.

Translations

Translations of the word "dissipation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dissipação

🇮🇳 विलुप्ति

🇩🇪 Dissipation

🇮🇩 dissipasi

🇺🇦 дисипація

🇵🇱 dysypacja

🇯🇵 散逸 (さんいつ)

🇫🇷 dissipation

🇪🇸 disipación

🇹🇷 dağılım

🇰🇷 소산

🇸🇦 تبدد

🇨🇿 dissipace

🇸🇰 dissipácia

🇨🇳 耗散 (hàosàn)

🇸🇮 dissipacija

🇮🇸 dissipatio

🇰🇿 бұзылу

🇬🇪 დაზიანება

🇦🇿 yayılma

🇲🇽 disipación

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,578, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.