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Rarefaction - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Rarefaction is the reduction in density or pressure of a substance, such as air or a gas, often creating a thinning or spreading out of its particles. It is the opposite of compression.

rarefaction

/ˌrɛrəˈfækʃən/ /ˌreərɪˈfækʃən/

Definition:

The process of becoming less dense or reducing in pressure, often in gases or sound waves.

Synonyms:

thinning, attenuation, dilution, dispersion

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

compression, densification

Common Collocations:

sound rarefaction, air rarefaction, wave rarefaction

Derivatives:

rarefy, rarefied

Usage Tips:

Use "rarefaction" to describe thinning in gases or sound waves; avoid for solids or liquids unless context supports it.

Common Phrases:

rarefaction wave, zone of rarefaction, atmospheric rarefaction

Etymology:

From Latin "rarefacere," meaning "to make thin," combining "rarus" (thin) and "facere" (to make).

Examples:

  • 1. The scientist explained the concept of rarefaction in sound waves clearly.
  • 2. During the experiment, we observed the rarefaction of air inside the vacuum chamber.
  • 3. Rarefaction occurs when a gas expands and its particles spread apart.
  • 4. The diver experienced discomfort due to the rarefaction of oxygen at high altitudes.

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