METASTABLE Meaning and
Definition
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Metastable is an adjective that describes a state or condition in physics and chemistry where a system or substance is temporarily stable, but not in its lowest energy state. In other words, it is a transient state that exhibits stability for a relatively long period, but can easily transition to a more stable state with a slight disturbance or trigger.
In physics, metastable is often used to describe atomic or molecular systems that are trapped in higher energy states with longer lifetimes than would typically be expected. It occurs when the system is prevented from reaching its lowest energy state due to energy barriers or kinetic limitations. Examples of metastable states include excited atoms or molecules that do not immediately undergo decay to their ground state.
In chemistry, metastable is commonly used to describe compounds or solutions that exist in a less stable state than their equilibrium state. These substances may persist in this state for a certain period but can undergo a spontaneous transformation into a more stable form under certain conditions, such as changes in temperature or pressure.
Overall, metastable refers to a condition where a system or substance is temporarily stable but has the potential to transition to a more stable state. It is a term frequently utilized in the fields of physics and chemistry to describe phenomena that deviate from equilibrium but persist due to specific constraints or barriers.
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Of uncertain stability, in a condition to pass into another phase when slightly disturbed. Water, for example, when cooled below the freezing point may remain liquid but will at once congeal if a piece of ice is added to it.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METASTABLE
Etymology of METASTABLE
The word "metastable" combines two root words, "meta" and "stable", to form its meaning.
The prefix "meta-" comes from Greek, meaning "change" or "beyond". It is often used to indicate a change in state or a transition.
The word "stable" originated from Latin "stabilis", which means firm, steady, or solid. In the context of physics and chemistry, stability refers to a state where a system, such as a molecule or a material, remains unchanged or maintains its characteristics over time.
Therefore, when these two root words are combined, "metastable" refers to a state or condition that is stable for a certain period but has the potential to change or transition to a more stable state under certain conditions. It is often used to describe systems or materials that are temporarily stable but not in their lowest energy state.
Similar spelling words for METASTABLE
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