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Rarefaction: meaning, definitions and examples

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rarefaction

 

[ˌrerəˈfakSHən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

scientific term

Rarefaction refers to the reduction of an item's density or concentration. This phenomenon is often discussed in the context of physics, particularly when analyzing sound waves or gases. In acoustics, rarefaction occurs as sound waves travel through a medium, resulting in areas of lower pressure. Additionally, it can be observed in biological sciences, particularly in the study of population densities in ecology. Understanding rarefaction is crucial for interpreting various scientific concepts and phenomena.

Synonyms

depletion, diminution, lessening.

Examples of usage

  • The rarefaction of sound waves allows us to hear music from a distance.
  • In ecology, species rarefaction helps assess biodiversity in a given area.
  • The rarefaction of air occurs at higher altitudes.
  • Rarefaction effects can be demonstrated through various physical experiments.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'rarefactio', where 'rarefacere' means 'to make rare' or 'to make thin'.
  • Etymologically, it combines 'rarefied', meaning less dense, and 'factio', indicating action or process.
  • The term has been used in scientific contexts since the 17th century, especially relating to fluids and gases.

Science

  • In physics, rarefaction occurs in sound waves where the molecules are spaced farther apart, creating lower pressure.
  • During the rarefaction phase in compression waves, regions of lower pressure allow sound to travel more efficiently.
  • Rarefaction is also critical in understanding concepts like the vacuum of space, where matter density is extremely low.

Atmospheric Science

  • As altitude increases, the air becomes rarer, causing effects like decreased oxygen levels, which is crucial for climbers.
  • Meteorological phenomena, like thunderstorms, can create areas of rarefaction, influencing storm dynamics.
  • Understanding rarefaction helps scientists predict weather patterns and air pressure changes in the atmosphere.

Musical Acoustics

  • In music, the concept of rarefaction is essential for understanding how sound waves interact with the environment.
  • Certain musical instruments, especially woodwinds, use rarefaction to produce notes, affecting sound quality.
  • Sound engineers manipulate rarefaction and compression in audio recording to enhance the listening experience.

Cultural References

  • In literature, rarefaction has been used metaphorically to describe scenes or moments who feel light or thin by emotional weight.
  • Artists may represent rarefaction through abstract works that evoke feelings of emptiness or spaciousness.
  • The concept connects to mindfulness, suggesting moments of stillness are akin to rarefied states of being.

Translations

Translations of the word "rarefaction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rarefação

🇮🇳 द्रव्यमान का पतला होना

🇩🇪 Verdünnung

🇮🇩 penipisan

🇺🇦 розрідження

🇵🇱 rozrzedzenie

🇯🇵 希薄化

🇫🇷 rarefaction

🇪🇸 rarefacción

🇹🇷 seyrekleşme

🇰🇷 희박화

🇸🇦 تخفيف

🇨🇿 zředění

🇸🇰 zriedenie

🇨🇳 稀疏化

🇸🇮 redčenje

🇮🇸 þynning

🇰🇿 сирекшілік

🇬🇪 გაფართოება

🇦🇿 seyrəkliyin azalması

🇲🇽 rarefacción

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,211, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.