Rarefaction
/ˌrɛr.əˈfæk.ʃən/noun
The process of becoming less dense.
The rarefaction of the gas allowed it to expand rapidly.
Usage tips
Neutral
sound rarefaction,rarefaction of gas,rarefaction in fluids
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Scientific Context
'Rarefaction' is often used in physics to describe how the density of a substance can change.
For example, 'In rarefaction waves, the particles of the medium are spaced farther apart.'
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
Rarefaction can also be used metaphorically to describe reduction in intensity.
For example, 'There was a rarefaction of emotions after the argument.'
Pro Tip 3/3Contextual Clarity
It's valuable to specify the type of rarefaction being discussed, such as in gases or sound.
For example, 'In sound waves, rarefaction refers to the areas of lower pressure.'
Compare with
compressiondiluteexpansionrarefied
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