Bistable is a term that is commonly used in the fields of physics, electronics, and engineering. It is a term that describes a system or device that has two stable states, which can be switched between by an external stimulus. In this article, we will explore the definitions, origins, and meanings of bistable, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The term bistable is derived from the prefix “bi-” which means two, and “stable” which means unchanging. Bistable refers to a system or device that has two stable states, which can be switched between by an external stimulus. In electronics, bistable circuits are used to store information, and they are commonly referred to as flip-flops. In physics, bistable systems are used to study the behavior of particles and waves.
Origin
The term bistable was first used in the early 20th century by physicists who were studying the behavior of particles and waves. The term was later adopted by engineers and electronics experts who were developing new technologies and devices that required the use of bistable circuits.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The term bistable is defined in different ways in different dictionaries. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bistable refers to a system or device that has two stable states, which can be switched between by an external stimulus. The Oxford English Dictionary defines bistable as having two stable states or positions. The Cambridge English Dictionary defines bistable as having two stable states that can be switched between by an external force.
Associations
Bistable is commonly associated with electronics, physics, and engineering. It is used to describe circuits, systems, and devices that have two stable states, which can be switched between by an external stimulus. Bistable circuits are used in a variety of electronic devices, including computers, televisions, and cell phones.
Synonyms
The synonyms of bistable include two-state, dual-state, and double-state. These terms are often used interchangeably with bistable to describe systems or devices that have two stable states.
Antonyms
The antonyms of bistable include monostable, which refers to a system or device that has only one stable state, and unstable, which refers to a system or device that does not have a stable state.
The same root words
The root words of bistable are bi- and stable. The prefix “bi-” means two, while stable refers to something that is unchanging or steady. Other words that contain the prefix “bi-” include bilingual, biannual, and bisexual.
Example Sentences
- The flip-flop circuit is a bistable device that can store information.
- The bistable system was used to study the behavior of particles and waves.
- The dual-state sensor is a bistable device that can detect changes in temperature.
- The monostable circuit has only one stable state and cannot store information.
- The unstable system was unable to maintain a stable state and was therefore unreliable.