The definition tag is used in situations where the question is either about how some term or concept is define or where the validity of an answer depends on a subtle definition of some term or concept used in the question.
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7answers
659 views
What is the current status of Pluto?
Pluto has been designated a planet in our solar system for years (ever since it was discovered in the last century), but a couple of years ago it was demoted.
What caused this decision? And is there ...
2
votes
1answer
231 views
Are inductance and self-inductance synonyms?
Wikipedia mentions that the word self in the word "self-inductance" is to differentiate it from "mutual inductance". But it does not state whether the two things are the same thing. So do the both ...
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vote
2answers
728 views
what is meant by “crossover phenomena”?
In many articles I read the term "crossover phenomena" and a lot of methodology discussed according to it, with little or no description about what is meant by it. Sometimes there is a connection to ...
10
votes
1answer
1k views
What is the definition of how to count degrees of freedom?
This question resulted, rather as by-product, the discussion on how to count degrees of freedom (DOF). I extend that question here:
Are necessary1 derivatives such as velocities counted as ...
7
votes
3answers
773 views
Definitions and usage of Covariant, Form-invariant, Invariant?
Just wondering about the definitions and usage of these three terms.
To my understanding so far, "covariant" and "form-invariant" are used when referring to physical laws, and these words are ...
7
votes
7answers
5k views
Simple explanation of quantum mechanics
Can you please describe quantum mechanics in simple words? When ever I read this word (quantum computers, quantum mechanics, quantum physics, quantum gravity etc) I feel like fantasy, myth and ...
-1
votes
3answers
321 views
Are we crystals?
Can we say that we are crystals because just like crystals we are made up of very small unit (cell) making up almost the same shape (our body) everywhere.
1
vote
3answers
507 views
What is the definition of physically meaningful?
I asked a question recently where I wanted to know whether it was physically meaningful to talk about the arrow of time in other universes.
Although many people apparently have an intuitive notion of ...
11
votes
3answers
880 views
Why are quark types known as flavors?
There are six types of quarks, known as flavors.
Why where these types called flavors?
Why do the flavors have such odd names (up, down, charm, strange, top, and bottom)?
13
votes
7answers
1k views
What is a general definition of impedance?
Impedance is a concept that shows up in any area of physics concerning waves. In transmission lines, impedance is the ratio of voltage to current. In optics, index of refraction plays a role similar ...
7
votes
4answers
3k views
What is sound and how is it produced?
I've been using the term "sound" all my life, but I really have no clue as to what sound exactly is or how it is created. What is sound? How is it produced? Can it be measured?
