Conclusion
Absorptance is a term used in physics to describe the ability of a material to absorb radiation or light. It is an essential concept in understanding the behavior of materials when exposed to different types of energy. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of absorptance, its origin, and its use in different contexts.
Definitions
Absorptance is defined as the ratio of the absorbed radiant energy to the incident radiant energy. It is a measure of the ability of a material to absorb radiation. Absorptance is expressed as a decimal or a percentage, and it ranges from 0 to 1. A material with an absorptance of 0 absorbs no radiation, while a material with an absorptance of 1 absorbs all the radiation incident upon it.
Origin
The term absorptance is derived from the word absorb, which means to take in or soak up. The word absorb comes from the Latin word absorbere, which means to swallow up. The concept of absorptance was first introduced in the field of optics in the 19th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, absorptance is defined as “the ratio of the radiant energy absorbed by a surface to the total radiant energy incident upon it.” Webster’s Dictionary defines absorptance as “the ability of a material to absorb radiation or light.”
Associations
Absorptance is closely related to the concepts of reflectance and transmittance. Reflectance is the ability of a material to reflect radiation, while transmittance is the ability of a material to transmit radiation. Together, these three concepts form the basis of the study of radiation and its interaction with matter.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for absorptance include absorption coefficient, absorptivity, and absorption factor.
Antonyms
The antonyms of absorptance are reflectance and transmittance.
The same root words
The same root words as absorptance include absorb, absorption, and absorbent.
Example Sentences
- The absorptance of this material is very high, which makes it useful for solar panels.
- The absorptance of the paint on the walls affects the temperature inside the room.
- The absorptance of the lens determines how much light is transmitted through it.
Absorptance is a fundamental concept in the study of radiation and its interaction with matter. It is a measure of the ability of a material to absorb radiation or light. Understanding absorptance is important in fields such as optics, solar energy, and materials science. By knowing the absorptance of a material, scientists and engineers can design better products and technologies.