| slovo | definícia |
electricity
(encz) | electricity,elektřina |
Electricity
(gcide) | Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
electricity
(wn) | electricity
n 1: a physical phenomenon associated with stationary or moving
electrons and protons
2: energy made available by the flow of electric charge through
a conductor; "they built a car that runs on electricity"
[syn: electricity, electrical energy]
3: keen and shared excitement; "the stage crackled with
electricity whenever she was on it" |
electricity
(devil) | ELECTRICITY, n. The power that causes all natural phenomena not known
to be caused by something else. It is the same thing as lightning,
and its famous attempt to strike Dr. Franklin is one of the most
picturesque incidents in that great and good man's career. The memory
of Dr. Franklin is justly held in great reverence, particularly in
France, where a waxen effigy of him was recently on exhibition,
bearing the following touching account of his life and services to
science:
"Monsieur Franqulin, inventor of electricity. This
illustrious savant, after having made several voyages around the
world, died on the Sandwich Islands and was devoured by savages,
of whom not a single fragment was ever recovered."
Electricity seems destined to play a most important part in the
arts and industries. The question of its economical application to
some purposes is still unsettled, but experiment has already proved
that it will propel a street car better than a gas jet and give more
light than a horse.
|
| | podobné slovo | definícia |
conservation of electricity
(encz) | conservation of electricity, n: |
current electricity
(encz) | current electricity, n: |
dynamic electricity
(encz) | dynamic electricity, n: |
electricity
(encz) | electricity,elektřina |
hydroelectricity
(encz) | hydroelectricity, n: |
photoelectricity
(encz) | photoelectricity,fotoelektřina n: Zdeněk Brož |
piezoelectricity
(encz) | piezoelectricity,piezoelektřina n: [fyz.] Zdeněk Brož |
pyroelectricity
(encz) | pyroelectricity,pyroelektřina n: Zdeněk Brož |
static electricity
(encz) | static electricity,statická elektřina n: Zdeněk Brož |
thermoelectricity
(encz) | thermoelectricity, n: |
Animal electricity
(gcide) | Animal \An"i*mal\, a. [Cf. F. animal.]
1. Of or relating to animals; as, animal functions.
[1913 Webster]
2. Pertaining to the merely sentient part of a creature, as
distinguished from the intellectual, rational, or
spiritual part; as, the animal passions or appetites.
[1913 Webster]
3. Consisting of the flesh of animals; as, animal food.
[1913 Webster]
Animal magnetism. See Magnetism and Mesmerism.
Animal electricity, the electricity developed in some
animals, as the electric eel, torpedo, etc.
Animal flower (Zool.), a name given to certain marine
animals resembling a flower, as any species of actinia or
sea anemone, and other Anthozoa, hydroids, starfishes,
etc.
Animal heat (Physiol.), the heat generated in the body of a
living animal, by means of which the animal is kept at
nearly a uniform temperature.
Animal spirits. See under Spirit.
Animal kingdom, the whole class of beings endowed with
animal life. It embraces several subkingdoms, and under
these there are Classes, Orders, Families, Genera,
Species, and sometimes intermediate groupings, all in
regular subordination, but variously arranged by different
writers.
Note: The following are the grand divisions, or subkingdoms,
and the principal classes under them, generally
recognized at the present time:
Vertebrata, including Mammalia or Mammals, Aves or
Birds, Reptilia, Amphibia, Pisces or Fishes,
Marsipobranchiata (Craniota); and Leptocardia
(Acrania). Tunicata, including the Thaliacea, and
Ascidioidea or Ascidians. Articulata or Annulosa,
including Insecta, Myriapoda, Malacapoda, Arachnida,
Pycnogonida, Merostomata, Crustacea (Arthropoda); and
Annelida, Gehyrea (Anarthropoda).
Helminthes or Vermes, including Rotifera,
Ch[ae]tognatha, Nematoidea, Acanthocephala, Nemertina,
Turbellaria, Trematoda, Cestoidea, Mesozea. |
Atmospheric electricity
(gcide) | Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
bioelectricity
(gcide) | bioelectricity \bioelectricity\ n.
electric phenomena in animals or plants.
[WordNet 1.5] |
Common electricity
(gcide) | Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Dynamical electricity
(gcide) | Dynamic \Dy*nam"ic\, Dynamical \Dy*nam"ic*al\, a. [Gr. ?
powerful, fr. ? power, fr. ? to be able; cf. L. durus hard,
E. dure: cf. F. dynamique.]
1. Of or pertaining to dynamics; belonging to energy or
power; characterized by energy or production of force.
[1913 Webster]
Science, as well as history, has its past to show,
-- a past indeed, much larger; but its immensity is
dynamic, not divine. --J.
Martineau.
[1913 Webster]
The vowel is produced by phonetic, not by dynamic,
causes. --J. Peile.
[1913 Webster]
2. Relating to physical forces, effects, or laws; as,
dynamical geology.
[1913 Webster]
As natural science has become more dynamic, so has
history. --Prof. Shedd.
[1913 Webster]
Dynamical electricity. See under Electricity.
[1913 Webster]
Note: WordNet lists a number of narrower terms for dynamic
andElectricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Franklinic electricity
(gcide) | Franklinic \Frank*lin"ic\, a.
Of or pertaining to Benjamin Franklin.
[1913 Webster]
Franklinic electricity, electricity produced by friction;
called also static electricity.
[1913 Webster] |
Frictional electricity
(gcide) | Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Magnetic electricity
(gcide) | Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Magneto-electricity
(gcide) | Magneto-electricity \Mag`net*o-e`lec*tric"i*ty\, n.
1. Electricity evolved by the action of magnets.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Physics) That branch of science which treats of the
development of electricity by the action of magnets; --
the counterpart of electro-magnetism.
[1913 Webster] |
negative electricity
(gcide) | Negative \Neg"a*tive\ (n[e^]g"[.a]*t[i^]v), a. [F. n['e]gatif,
L. negativus, fr. negare to deny. See Negation.]
1. Denying; implying, containing, or asserting denial,
negation or refusal; returning the answer no to an inquiry
or request; refusing assent; as, a negative answer; a
negative opinion; -- opposed to affirmative.
[1913 Webster]
If thou wilt confess,
Or else be impudently negative. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
Denying me any power of a negative voice. --Eikon
Basilike.
[1913 Webster]
Something between an affirmative bow and a negative
shake. --Dickens.
[1913 Webster]
2. Not positive; without affirmative statement or
demonstration; indirect; consisting in the absence of
something; privative; as, a negative argument; negative
evidence; a negative morality; negative criticism.
[1913 Webster]
There in another way of denying Christ, . . . which
is negative, when we do not acknowledge and confess
him. --South.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Logic) Asserting absence of connection between a subject
and a predicate; as, a negative proposition.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Photog.) Of or pertaining to a picture upon glass or
other material, in which the lights and shades of the
original, and the relations of right and left, are
reversed.
[1913 Webster]
5. (Chem.) Metalloidal; nonmetallic; -- contrasted with
positive or basic; as, the nitro group is negative.
[1913 Webster]
Note: This word, derived from electro-negative, is now
commonly used in a more general sense, when acidiferous
is the intended signification.
[1913 Webster]
Negative crystal.
(a) A cavity in a mineral mass, having the form of a
crystal.
(b) A crystal which has the power of negative double
refraction. See refraction.
negative electricity (Elec.), the kind of electricity which
is developed upon resin or ebonite when rubbed, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery which is
connected with the plate most attacked by the exciting
liquid; -- formerly called resinous electricity. Opposed
to positive electricity. Formerly, according to
Franklin's theory of a single electric fluid, negative
electricity was supposed to be electricity in a degree
below saturation, or the natural amount for a given body.
See Electricity.
Negative eyepiece. (Opt.) see under Eyepiece.
Negative quantity (Alg.), a quantity preceded by the
negative sign, or which stands in the relation indicated
by this sign to some other quantity. See Negative sign
(below).
Negative rotation, right-handed rotation. See
Right-handed, 3.
Negative sign, the sign -, or minus (opposed in
signification to +, or plus), indicating that the
quantity to which it is prefixed is to be subtracted from
the preceding quantity, or is to be reckoned from zero or
cipher in the opposite direction to that of quanties
having the sign plus either expressed or understood; thus,
in a - b, b is to be substracted from a, or regarded as
opposite to it in value; and -10[deg] on a thermometer
means 10[deg] below the zero of the scale.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Negative electricity
(gcide) | Negative \Neg"a*tive\ (n[e^]g"[.a]*t[i^]v), a. [F. n['e]gatif,
L. negativus, fr. negare to deny. See Negation.]
1. Denying; implying, containing, or asserting denial,
negation or refusal; returning the answer no to an inquiry
or request; refusing assent; as, a negative answer; a
negative opinion; -- opposed to affirmative.
[1913 Webster]
If thou wilt confess,
Or else be impudently negative. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
Denying me any power of a negative voice. --Eikon
Basilike.
[1913 Webster]
Something between an affirmative bow and a negative
shake. --Dickens.
[1913 Webster]
2. Not positive; without affirmative statement or
demonstration; indirect; consisting in the absence of
something; privative; as, a negative argument; negative
evidence; a negative morality; negative criticism.
[1913 Webster]
There in another way of denying Christ, . . . which
is negative, when we do not acknowledge and confess
him. --South.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Logic) Asserting absence of connection between a subject
and a predicate; as, a negative proposition.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Photog.) Of or pertaining to a picture upon glass or
other material, in which the lights and shades of the
original, and the relations of right and left, are
reversed.
[1913 Webster]
5. (Chem.) Metalloidal; nonmetallic; -- contrasted with
positive or basic; as, the nitro group is negative.
[1913 Webster]
Note: This word, derived from electro-negative, is now
commonly used in a more general sense, when acidiferous
is the intended signification.
[1913 Webster]
Negative crystal.
(a) A cavity in a mineral mass, having the form of a
crystal.
(b) A crystal which has the power of negative double
refraction. See refraction.
negative electricity (Elec.), the kind of electricity which
is developed upon resin or ebonite when rubbed, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery which is
connected with the plate most attacked by the exciting
liquid; -- formerly called resinous electricity. Opposed
to positive electricity. Formerly, according to
Franklin's theory of a single electric fluid, negative
electricity was supposed to be electricity in a degree
below saturation, or the natural amount for a given body.
See Electricity.
Negative eyepiece. (Opt.) see under Eyepiece.
Negative quantity (Alg.), a quantity preceded by the
negative sign, or which stands in the relation indicated
by this sign to some other quantity. See Negative sign
(below).
Negative rotation, right-handed rotation. See
Right-handed, 3.
Negative sign, the sign -, or minus (opposed in
signification to +, or plus), indicating that the
quantity to which it is prefixed is to be subtracted from
the preceding quantity, or is to be reckoned from zero or
cipher in the opposite direction to that of quanties
having the sign plus either expressed or understood; thus,
in a - b, b is to be substracted from a, or regarded as
opposite to it in value; and -10[deg] on a thermometer
means 10[deg] below the zero of the scale.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Organic electricity
(gcide) | Organic \Or*gan"ic\ ([^o]r*g[a^]n"[i^]k), a. [L. organicus, Gr.
'organiko`s: cf. F. organique.]
1. (Biol.) Of or pertaining to an organ or its functions, or
to objects composed of organs; consisting of organs, or
containing them; as, the organic structure of animals and
plants; exhibiting characters peculiar to living
organisms; as, organic bodies, organic life, organic
remains. Cf. Inorganic.
[1913 Webster]
2. Produced by the organs; as, organic pleasure. [R.]
[1913 Webster]
3. Instrumental; acting as instruments of nature or of art to
a certain destined function or end. [R.]
[1913 Webster]
Those organic arts which enable men to discourse and
write perspicuously. --Milton.
[1913 Webster]
4. Forming a whole composed of organs. Hence: Of or
pertaining to a system of organs; inherent in, or
resulting from, a certain organization; as, an organic
government; his love of truth was not inculcated, but
organic.
[1913 Webster]
5. (Chem.) Of or pertaining to compounds which are
derivatives of hydrocarbons; pertaining to, or denoting,
any one of a large series of carbon-containing compounds
which are related to the carbon compounds produced by
biological processes (such as methane, oils, fats, sugars,
alcohols, ethers, proteins, etc.) and include many
substances of artificial production which may or may not
occur in animals or plants; -- contrasted with
inorganic.
Note: Borderline cases exist which may be classified as
either organic or inorganic, such as carbon
terachloride (which may be viewed as a derivative of
methane), but in general a compound must have a carbon
with a hydrogen atom or another carbon atom attached to
it to be viewed as truly organic, i.e. included in the
subject matter of organic chemistry.
[1913 Webster +PJC]
Note: The principles of organic and inorganic chemistry are
identical; but the enormous number and the completeness
of related series of organic compounds, together with
their remarkable facility of exchange and substitution,
offer an illustration of chemical reaction and homology
not to be paralleled in inorganic chemistry.
[1913 Webster]
Organic analysis (Chem.), the analysis of organic
compounds, concerned chiefly with the determination of
carbon as carbon dioxide, hydrogen as water, oxygen as the
difference between the sum of the others and 100 per cent,
and nitrogen as free nitrogen, ammonia, or nitric oxide;
-- formerly called ultimate analysis, in distinction from
proximate analysis.
Organic chemistry. See under Chemistry.
Organic compounds. (Chem.) Chemical substances which are
organic[5]. See Carbon compounds, under Carbon.
Organic description of a curve (Geom.), the description of
a curve on a plane by means of instruments. --Brande & C.
Organic disease (Med.), a disease attended with morbid
changes in the structure of the organs of the body or in
the composition of its fluids; -- opposed to {functional
disease}.
Organic electricity. See under Electricity.
Organic law or Organic laws, a law or system of laws, or
declaration of principles fundamental to the existence and
organization of a political or other association; a
constitution.
Organic stricture (Med.), a contraction of one of the
natural passages of the body produced by structural
changes in its walls, as distinguished from a {spasmodic
stricture}, which is due to muscular contraction.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Photo-electricity
(gcide) | Photo-electricity \Pho`to-e*lec*tric"i*ty\, n. [Photo- +
electricity.]
Electricity produced by light.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.] |
Positive electricity
(gcide) | Positive \Pos"i*tive\, a. [OE. positif, F. positif, L.
positivus. See Position.]
1. Having a real position, existence, or energy; existing in
fact; real; actual; -- opposed to negative. "Positive
good." --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
2. Derived from an object by itself; not dependent on
changing circumstances or relations; absolute; -- opposed
to relative; as, the idea of beauty is not positive, but
depends on the different tastes individuals.
[1913 Webster]
3. Definitely laid down; explicitly stated; clearly
expressed; -- opposed to implied; as, a positive
declaration or promise.
[1913 Webster]
Positive words, that he would not bear arms against
King Edward's son. --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
4. Hence: Not admitting of any doubt, condition,
qualification, or discretion; not dependent on
circumstances or probabilities; not speculative;
compelling assent or obedience; peremptory; indisputable;
decisive; as, positive instructions; positive truth;
positive proof. "'T is positive 'gainst all exceptions."
--Shak.
[1913 Webster]
5. Prescribed by express enactment or institution; settled by
arbitrary appointment; said of laws.
[1913 Webster]
In laws, that which is natural bindeth universally;
that which is positive, not so. --Hooker.
[1913 Webster]
6. Fully assured; confident; certain; sometimes,
overconfident; dogmatic; overbearing; -- said of persons.
[1913 Webster]
Some positive, persisting fops we know,
That, if once wrong, will needs be always. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
7. Having the power of direct action or influence; as, a
positive voice in legislation. --Swift.
[1913 Webster]
8. (Photog.) Corresponding with the original in respect to
the position of lights and shades, instead of having the
lights and shades reversed; as, a positive picture.
[1913 Webster]
9. (Chem.)
(a) Electro-positive.
(b) Hence, basic; metallic; not acid; -- opposed to
negative, and said of metals, bases, and basic
radicals.
[1913 Webster]
10. (Mach. & Mech.)
(a) Designating, or pertaining to, a motion or device in
which the movement derived from a driver, or the grip
or hold of a restraining piece, is communicated
through an unyielding intermediate piece or pieces;
as, a claw clutch is a positive clutch, while a
friction clutch is not.
(b) Designating, or pertaining to, a device giving a
to-and-fro motion; as, a positive dobby.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
11. (Vehicles) Designating a method of steering or turning in
which the steering wheels move so that they describe
concentric arcs in making a turn, to insure freedom from
side slip or harmful resistance.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
Positive crystals (Opt.), a doubly refracting crystal in
which the index of refraction for the extraordinary ray is
greater than for the ordinary ray, and the former is
refracted nearer to the axis than the latter, as quartz
and ice; -- opposed to negative crystal, or one in which
this characteristic is reversed, as Iceland spar,
tourmaline, etc.
Positive degree (Gram.), that state of an adjective or
adverb which denotes simple quality, without comparison or
relation to increase or diminution; as, wise, noble.
Positive electricity (Elec), the kind of electricity which
is developed when glass is rubbed with silk, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery attached to the
plate that is not attacked by the exciting liquid; --
formerly called vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative electricity.
Positive eyepiece. See under Eyepiece.
Positive law. See Municipal law, under Law.
Positive motion (Mach.), motion which is derived from a
driver through unyielding intermediate pieces, or by
direct contact, and not through elastic connections, nor
by means of friction, gravity, etc.; definite motion.
Positive philosophy. See Positivism.
Positive pole.
(a) (Elec.) The pole of a battery or pile which yields
positive or vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative pole.
(b) (Magnetism) The north pole. [R.]
Positive quantity (Alg.), an affirmative quantity, or one
affected by the sign plus [+].
Positive rotation (Mech.), left-handed rotation.
Positive sign (Math.), the sign [+] denoting plus, or more,
or addition.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Pyroelectricity
(gcide) | Pyroelectricity \Pyr`o*e`lec*tric"i*ty\, n. (Physics)
Electricity developed by means of heat; the science which
treats of electricity thus developed.
[1913 Webster] |
Resinous electricity
(gcide) | Resinous \Res"in*ous\ (-?s), a. [L. resinous: cf. F.
r['e]sineux. See Resin.]
Of or pertaining to resin; of the nature of resin; resembling
or obtained from resin.
[1913 Webster]
Resinous electricity (Elec.), electricity which is exited
by rubbing bodies of the resinous kind. See {Negative
electricity}, under Negative.
[1913 Webster]Negative \Neg"a*tive\ (n[e^]g"[.a]*t[i^]v), a. [F. n['e]gatif,
L. negativus, fr. negare to deny. See Negation.]
1. Denying; implying, containing, or asserting denial,
negation or refusal; returning the answer no to an inquiry
or request; refusing assent; as, a negative answer; a
negative opinion; -- opposed to affirmative.
[1913 Webster]
If thou wilt confess,
Or else be impudently negative. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
Denying me any power of a negative voice. --Eikon
Basilike.
[1913 Webster]
Something between an affirmative bow and a negative
shake. --Dickens.
[1913 Webster]
2. Not positive; without affirmative statement or
demonstration; indirect; consisting in the absence of
something; privative; as, a negative argument; negative
evidence; a negative morality; negative criticism.
[1913 Webster]
There in another way of denying Christ, . . . which
is negative, when we do not acknowledge and confess
him. --South.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Logic) Asserting absence of connection between a subject
and a predicate; as, a negative proposition.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Photog.) Of or pertaining to a picture upon glass or
other material, in which the lights and shades of the
original, and the relations of right and left, are
reversed.
[1913 Webster]
5. (Chem.) Metalloidal; nonmetallic; -- contrasted with
positive or basic; as, the nitro group is negative.
[1913 Webster]
Note: This word, derived from electro-negative, is now
commonly used in a more general sense, when acidiferous
is the intended signification.
[1913 Webster]
Negative crystal.
(a) A cavity in a mineral mass, having the form of a
crystal.
(b) A crystal which has the power of negative double
refraction. See refraction.
negative electricity (Elec.), the kind of electricity which
is developed upon resin or ebonite when rubbed, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery which is
connected with the plate most attacked by the exciting
liquid; -- formerly called resinous electricity. Opposed
to positive electricity. Formerly, according to
Franklin's theory of a single electric fluid, negative
electricity was supposed to be electricity in a degree
below saturation, or the natural amount for a given body.
See Electricity.
Negative eyepiece. (Opt.) see under Eyepiece.
Negative quantity (Alg.), a quantity preceded by the
negative sign, or which stands in the relation indicated
by this sign to some other quantity. See Negative sign
(below).
Negative rotation, right-handed rotation. See
Right-handed, 3.
Negative sign, the sign -, or minus (opposed in
signification to +, or plus), indicating that the
quantity to which it is prefixed is to be subtracted from
the preceding quantity, or is to be reckoned from zero or
cipher in the opposite direction to that of quanties
having the sign plus either expressed or understood; thus,
in a - b, b is to be substracted from a, or regarded as
opposite to it in value; and -10[deg] on a thermometer
means 10[deg] below the zero of the scale.
[1913 Webster] |
resinous electricity
(gcide) | Resinous \Res"in*ous\ (-?s), a. [L. resinous: cf. F.
r['e]sineux. See Resin.]
Of or pertaining to resin; of the nature of resin; resembling
or obtained from resin.
[1913 Webster]
Resinous electricity (Elec.), electricity which is exited
by rubbing bodies of the resinous kind. See {Negative
electricity}, under Negative.
[1913 Webster]Negative \Neg"a*tive\ (n[e^]g"[.a]*t[i^]v), a. [F. n['e]gatif,
L. negativus, fr. negare to deny. See Negation.]
1. Denying; implying, containing, or asserting denial,
negation or refusal; returning the answer no to an inquiry
or request; refusing assent; as, a negative answer; a
negative opinion; -- opposed to affirmative.
[1913 Webster]
If thou wilt confess,
Or else be impudently negative. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
Denying me any power of a negative voice. --Eikon
Basilike.
[1913 Webster]
Something between an affirmative bow and a negative
shake. --Dickens.
[1913 Webster]
2. Not positive; without affirmative statement or
demonstration; indirect; consisting in the absence of
something; privative; as, a negative argument; negative
evidence; a negative morality; negative criticism.
[1913 Webster]
There in another way of denying Christ, . . . which
is negative, when we do not acknowledge and confess
him. --South.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Logic) Asserting absence of connection between a subject
and a predicate; as, a negative proposition.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Photog.) Of or pertaining to a picture upon glass or
other material, in which the lights and shades of the
original, and the relations of right and left, are
reversed.
[1913 Webster]
5. (Chem.) Metalloidal; nonmetallic; -- contrasted with
positive or basic; as, the nitro group is negative.
[1913 Webster]
Note: This word, derived from electro-negative, is now
commonly used in a more general sense, when acidiferous
is the intended signification.
[1913 Webster]
Negative crystal.
(a) A cavity in a mineral mass, having the form of a
crystal.
(b) A crystal which has the power of negative double
refraction. See refraction.
negative electricity (Elec.), the kind of electricity which
is developed upon resin or ebonite when rubbed, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery which is
connected with the plate most attacked by the exciting
liquid; -- formerly called resinous electricity. Opposed
to positive electricity. Formerly, according to
Franklin's theory of a single electric fluid, negative
electricity was supposed to be electricity in a degree
below saturation, or the natural amount for a given body.
See Electricity.
Negative eyepiece. (Opt.) see under Eyepiece.
Negative quantity (Alg.), a quantity preceded by the
negative sign, or which stands in the relation indicated
by this sign to some other quantity. See Negative sign
(below).
Negative rotation, right-handed rotation. See
Right-handed, 3.
Negative sign, the sign -, or minus (opposed in
signification to +, or plus), indicating that the
quantity to which it is prefixed is to be subtracted from
the preceding quantity, or is to be reckoned from zero or
cipher in the opposite direction to that of quanties
having the sign plus either expressed or understood; thus,
in a - b, b is to be substracted from a, or regarded as
opposite to it in value; and -10[deg] on a thermometer
means 10[deg] below the zero of the scale.
[1913 Webster] |
static electricity
(gcide) | Franklinic \Frank*lin"ic\, a.
Of or pertaining to Benjamin Franklin.
[1913 Webster]
Franklinic electricity, electricity produced by friction;
called also static electricity.
[1913 Webster]Static \Stat"ic\ (st[a^]t"[i^]k), Statical \Stat"ic*al\
(-[i^]*kal), a. [Gr. statiko`s causing to stand, skilled in
weighing, fr. 'ista`nai to cause to stand: cf. F. statique.
See Stand, and cf. Stage.]
1. Resting; acting by mere weight without motion; as,
statical pressure; static objects.
[1913 Webster]
2. Pertaining to bodies at rest or in equilibrium.
[1913 Webster]
Static electricity, Statical electricity. See the Note
under Electricity, 1.
Statical moment. See under Moment.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Static electricity
(gcide) | Franklinic \Frank*lin"ic\, a.
Of or pertaining to Benjamin Franklin.
[1913 Webster]
Franklinic electricity, electricity produced by friction;
called also static electricity.
[1913 Webster]Static \Stat"ic\ (st[a^]t"[i^]k), Statical \Stat"ic*al\
(-[i^]*kal), a. [Gr. statiko`s causing to stand, skilled in
weighing, fr. 'ista`nai to cause to stand: cf. F. statique.
See Stand, and cf. Stage.]
1. Resting; acting by mere weight without motion; as,
statical pressure; static objects.
[1913 Webster]
2. Pertaining to bodies at rest or in equilibrium.
[1913 Webster]
Static electricity, Statical electricity. See the Note
under Electricity, 1.
Statical moment. See under Moment.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
static electricity
(gcide) | Franklinic \Frank*lin"ic\, a.
Of or pertaining to Benjamin Franklin.
[1913 Webster]
Franklinic electricity, electricity produced by friction;
called also static electricity.
[1913 Webster]Static \Stat"ic\ (st[a^]t"[i^]k), Statical \Stat"ic*al\
(-[i^]*kal), a. [Gr. statiko`s causing to stand, skilled in
weighing, fr. 'ista`nai to cause to stand: cf. F. statique.
See Stand, and cf. Stage.]
1. Resting; acting by mere weight without motion; as,
statical pressure; static objects.
[1913 Webster]
2. Pertaining to bodies at rest or in equilibrium.
[1913 Webster]
Static electricity, Statical electricity. See the Note
under Electricity, 1.
Statical moment. See under Moment.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Statical electricity
(gcide) | Static \Stat"ic\ (st[a^]t"[i^]k), Statical \Stat"ic*al\
(-[i^]*kal), a. [Gr. statiko`s causing to stand, skilled in
weighing, fr. 'ista`nai to cause to stand: cf. F. statique.
See Stand, and cf. Stage.]
1. Resting; acting by mere weight without motion; as,
statical pressure; static objects.
[1913 Webster]
2. Pertaining to bodies at rest or in equilibrium.
[1913 Webster]
Static electricity, Statical electricity. See the Note
under Electricity, 1.
Statical moment. See under Moment.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Thermoelectricity
(gcide) | Thermoelectricity \Ther`mo*e`lec*tric"i*ty\, n. [Thermo- +
electricity: cf. F. thermo['e]lectricit['e].] (Physics)
Electricity developed in the action of heat. See the Note
under Electricity.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
triboelectricity
(gcide) | triboelectricity \trib`o*e*lec*tric"i*ty\, n. [tribo- +
electricity.]
electrical charge developed by rubbing objects together, suc
as amber on cat fur.
[PJC] |
vitreous electricity
(gcide) | Positive \Pos"i*tive\, a. [OE. positif, F. positif, L.
positivus. See Position.]
1. Having a real position, existence, or energy; existing in
fact; real; actual; -- opposed to negative. "Positive
good." --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
2. Derived from an object by itself; not dependent on
changing circumstances or relations; absolute; -- opposed
to relative; as, the idea of beauty is not positive, but
depends on the different tastes individuals.
[1913 Webster]
3. Definitely laid down; explicitly stated; clearly
expressed; -- opposed to implied; as, a positive
declaration or promise.
[1913 Webster]
Positive words, that he would not bear arms against
King Edward's son. --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
4. Hence: Not admitting of any doubt, condition,
qualification, or discretion; not dependent on
circumstances or probabilities; not speculative;
compelling assent or obedience; peremptory; indisputable;
decisive; as, positive instructions; positive truth;
positive proof. "'T is positive 'gainst all exceptions."
--Shak.
[1913 Webster]
5. Prescribed by express enactment or institution; settled by
arbitrary appointment; said of laws.
[1913 Webster]
In laws, that which is natural bindeth universally;
that which is positive, not so. --Hooker.
[1913 Webster]
6. Fully assured; confident; certain; sometimes,
overconfident; dogmatic; overbearing; -- said of persons.
[1913 Webster]
Some positive, persisting fops we know,
That, if once wrong, will needs be always. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
7. Having the power of direct action or influence; as, a
positive voice in legislation. --Swift.
[1913 Webster]
8. (Photog.) Corresponding with the original in respect to
the position of lights and shades, instead of having the
lights and shades reversed; as, a positive picture.
[1913 Webster]
9. (Chem.)
(a) Electro-positive.
(b) Hence, basic; metallic; not acid; -- opposed to
negative, and said of metals, bases, and basic
radicals.
[1913 Webster]
10. (Mach. & Mech.)
(a) Designating, or pertaining to, a motion or device in
which the movement derived from a driver, or the grip
or hold of a restraining piece, is communicated
through an unyielding intermediate piece or pieces;
as, a claw clutch is a positive clutch, while a
friction clutch is not.
(b) Designating, or pertaining to, a device giving a
to-and-fro motion; as, a positive dobby.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
11. (Vehicles) Designating a method of steering or turning in
which the steering wheels move so that they describe
concentric arcs in making a turn, to insure freedom from
side slip or harmful resistance.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
Positive crystals (Opt.), a doubly refracting crystal in
which the index of refraction for the extraordinary ray is
greater than for the ordinary ray, and the former is
refracted nearer to the axis than the latter, as quartz
and ice; -- opposed to negative crystal, or one in which
this characteristic is reversed, as Iceland spar,
tourmaline, etc.
Positive degree (Gram.), that state of an adjective or
adverb which denotes simple quality, without comparison or
relation to increase or diminution; as, wise, noble.
Positive electricity (Elec), the kind of electricity which
is developed when glass is rubbed with silk, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery attached to the
plate that is not attacked by the exciting liquid; --
formerly called vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative electricity.
Positive eyepiece. See under Eyepiece.
Positive law. See Municipal law, under Law.
Positive motion (Mach.), motion which is derived from a
driver through unyielding intermediate pieces, or by
direct contact, and not through elastic connections, nor
by means of friction, gravity, etc.; definite motion.
Positive philosophy. See Positivism.
Positive pole.
(a) (Elec.) The pole of a battery or pile which yields
positive or vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative pole.
(b) (Magnetism) The north pole. [R.]
Positive quantity (Alg.), an affirmative quantity, or one
affected by the sign plus [+].
Positive rotation (Mech.), left-handed rotation.
Positive sign (Math.), the sign [+] denoting plus, or more,
or addition.
[1913 Webster]Vitreous \Vit"re*ous\, a. [L. vitreous, from vitrum glass;
perhaps akin to videre to see (see Vision). Cf. Varnish.]
1. Consisting of, or resembling, glass; glassy; as, vitreous
rocks.
[1913 Webster]
2. Of or pertaining to glass; derived from glass; as,
vitreous electricity.
[1913 Webster]
Vitreous body (Anat.), the vitreous humor. See the Note
under Eye.
Vitreous electricity (Elec.), the kind of electricity
excited by rubbing glass with certain substances, as silk;
positive electricity; -- opposed to resinous, or negative,
electricity.
Vitreous humor. (Anat.) See the Note under Eye.
Vitreous sponge (Zool.), any one of numerous species of
siliceous sponges having, often fibrous, glassy spicules
which are normally six-rayed; a hexactinellid sponge. See
Venus's basket, under Venus.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Vitreous electricity
(gcide) | Positive \Pos"i*tive\, a. [OE. positif, F. positif, L.
positivus. See Position.]
1. Having a real position, existence, or energy; existing in
fact; real; actual; -- opposed to negative. "Positive
good." --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
2. Derived from an object by itself; not dependent on
changing circumstances or relations; absolute; -- opposed
to relative; as, the idea of beauty is not positive, but
depends on the different tastes individuals.
[1913 Webster]
3. Definitely laid down; explicitly stated; clearly
expressed; -- opposed to implied; as, a positive
declaration or promise.
[1913 Webster]
Positive words, that he would not bear arms against
King Edward's son. --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
4. Hence: Not admitting of any doubt, condition,
qualification, or discretion; not dependent on
circumstances or probabilities; not speculative;
compelling assent or obedience; peremptory; indisputable;
decisive; as, positive instructions; positive truth;
positive proof. "'T is positive 'gainst all exceptions."
--Shak.
[1913 Webster]
5. Prescribed by express enactment or institution; settled by
arbitrary appointment; said of laws.
[1913 Webster]
In laws, that which is natural bindeth universally;
that which is positive, not so. --Hooker.
[1913 Webster]
6. Fully assured; confident; certain; sometimes,
overconfident; dogmatic; overbearing; -- said of persons.
[1913 Webster]
Some positive, persisting fops we know,
That, if once wrong, will needs be always. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
7. Having the power of direct action or influence; as, a
positive voice in legislation. --Swift.
[1913 Webster]
8. (Photog.) Corresponding with the original in respect to
the position of lights and shades, instead of having the
lights and shades reversed; as, a positive picture.
[1913 Webster]
9. (Chem.)
(a) Electro-positive.
(b) Hence, basic; metallic; not acid; -- opposed to
negative, and said of metals, bases, and basic
radicals.
[1913 Webster]
10. (Mach. & Mech.)
(a) Designating, or pertaining to, a motion or device in
which the movement derived from a driver, or the grip
or hold of a restraining piece, is communicated
through an unyielding intermediate piece or pieces;
as, a claw clutch is a positive clutch, while a
friction clutch is not.
(b) Designating, or pertaining to, a device giving a
to-and-fro motion; as, a positive dobby.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
11. (Vehicles) Designating a method of steering or turning in
which the steering wheels move so that they describe
concentric arcs in making a turn, to insure freedom from
side slip or harmful resistance.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
Positive crystals (Opt.), a doubly refracting crystal in
which the index of refraction for the extraordinary ray is
greater than for the ordinary ray, and the former is
refracted nearer to the axis than the latter, as quartz
and ice; -- opposed to negative crystal, or one in which
this characteristic is reversed, as Iceland spar,
tourmaline, etc.
Positive degree (Gram.), that state of an adjective or
adverb which denotes simple quality, without comparison or
relation to increase or diminution; as, wise, noble.
Positive electricity (Elec), the kind of electricity which
is developed when glass is rubbed with silk, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery attached to the
plate that is not attacked by the exciting liquid; --
formerly called vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative electricity.
Positive eyepiece. See under Eyepiece.
Positive law. See Municipal law, under Law.
Positive motion (Mach.), motion which is derived from a
driver through unyielding intermediate pieces, or by
direct contact, and not through elastic connections, nor
by means of friction, gravity, etc.; definite motion.
Positive philosophy. See Positivism.
Positive pole.
(a) (Elec.) The pole of a battery or pile which yields
positive or vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative pole.
(b) (Magnetism) The north pole. [R.]
Positive quantity (Alg.), an affirmative quantity, or one
affected by the sign plus [+].
Positive rotation (Mech.), left-handed rotation.
Positive sign (Math.), the sign [+] denoting plus, or more,
or addition.
[1913 Webster]Vitreous \Vit"re*ous\, a. [L. vitreous, from vitrum glass;
perhaps akin to videre to see (see Vision). Cf. Varnish.]
1. Consisting of, or resembling, glass; glassy; as, vitreous
rocks.
[1913 Webster]
2. Of or pertaining to glass; derived from glass; as,
vitreous electricity.
[1913 Webster]
Vitreous body (Anat.), the vitreous humor. See the Note
under Eye.
Vitreous electricity (Elec.), the kind of electricity
excited by rubbing glass with certain substances, as silk;
positive electricity; -- opposed to resinous, or negative,
electricity.
Vitreous humor. (Anat.) See the Note under Eye.
Vitreous sponge (Zool.), any one of numerous species of
siliceous sponges having, often fibrous, glassy spicules
which are normally six-rayed; a hexactinellid sponge. See
Venus's basket, under Venus.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
vitreous electricity
(gcide) | Positive \Pos"i*tive\, a. [OE. positif, F. positif, L.
positivus. See Position.]
1. Having a real position, existence, or energy; existing in
fact; real; actual; -- opposed to negative. "Positive
good." --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
2. Derived from an object by itself; not dependent on
changing circumstances or relations; absolute; -- opposed
to relative; as, the idea of beauty is not positive, but
depends on the different tastes individuals.
[1913 Webster]
3. Definitely laid down; explicitly stated; clearly
expressed; -- opposed to implied; as, a positive
declaration or promise.
[1913 Webster]
Positive words, that he would not bear arms against
King Edward's son. --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
4. Hence: Not admitting of any doubt, condition,
qualification, or discretion; not dependent on
circumstances or probabilities; not speculative;
compelling assent or obedience; peremptory; indisputable;
decisive; as, positive instructions; positive truth;
positive proof. "'T is positive 'gainst all exceptions."
--Shak.
[1913 Webster]
5. Prescribed by express enactment or institution; settled by
arbitrary appointment; said of laws.
[1913 Webster]
In laws, that which is natural bindeth universally;
that which is positive, not so. --Hooker.
[1913 Webster]
6. Fully assured; confident; certain; sometimes,
overconfident; dogmatic; overbearing; -- said of persons.
[1913 Webster]
Some positive, persisting fops we know,
That, if once wrong, will needs be always. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
7. Having the power of direct action or influence; as, a
positive voice in legislation. --Swift.
[1913 Webster]
8. (Photog.) Corresponding with the original in respect to
the position of lights and shades, instead of having the
lights and shades reversed; as, a positive picture.
[1913 Webster]
9. (Chem.)
(a) Electro-positive.
(b) Hence, basic; metallic; not acid; -- opposed to
negative, and said of metals, bases, and basic
radicals.
[1913 Webster]
10. (Mach. & Mech.)
(a) Designating, or pertaining to, a motion or device in
which the movement derived from a driver, or the grip
or hold of a restraining piece, is communicated
through an unyielding intermediate piece or pieces;
as, a claw clutch is a positive clutch, while a
friction clutch is not.
(b) Designating, or pertaining to, a device giving a
to-and-fro motion; as, a positive dobby.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
11. (Vehicles) Designating a method of steering or turning in
which the steering wheels move so that they describe
concentric arcs in making a turn, to insure freedom from
side slip or harmful resistance.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
Positive crystals (Opt.), a doubly refracting crystal in
which the index of refraction for the extraordinary ray is
greater than for the ordinary ray, and the former is
refracted nearer to the axis than the latter, as quartz
and ice; -- opposed to negative crystal, or one in which
this characteristic is reversed, as Iceland spar,
tourmaline, etc.
Positive degree (Gram.), that state of an adjective or
adverb which denotes simple quality, without comparison or
relation to increase or diminution; as, wise, noble.
Positive electricity (Elec), the kind of electricity which
is developed when glass is rubbed with silk, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery attached to the
plate that is not attacked by the exciting liquid; --
formerly called vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative electricity.
Positive eyepiece. See under Eyepiece.
Positive law. See Municipal law, under Law.
Positive motion (Mach.), motion which is derived from a
driver through unyielding intermediate pieces, or by
direct contact, and not through elastic connections, nor
by means of friction, gravity, etc.; definite motion.
Positive philosophy. See Positivism.
Positive pole.
(a) (Elec.) The pole of a battery or pile which yields
positive or vitreous electricity; -- opposed to
negative pole.
(b) (Magnetism) The north pole. [R.]
Positive quantity (Alg.), an affirmative quantity, or one
affected by the sign plus [+].
Positive rotation (Mech.), left-handed rotation.
Positive sign (Math.), the sign [+] denoting plus, or more,
or addition.
[1913 Webster]Vitreous \Vit"re*ous\, a. [L. vitreous, from vitrum glass;
perhaps akin to videre to see (see Vision). Cf. Varnish.]
1. Consisting of, or resembling, glass; glassy; as, vitreous
rocks.
[1913 Webster]
2. Of or pertaining to glass; derived from glass; as,
vitreous electricity.
[1913 Webster]
Vitreous body (Anat.), the vitreous humor. See the Note
under Eye.
Vitreous electricity (Elec.), the kind of electricity
excited by rubbing glass with certain substances, as silk;
positive electricity; -- opposed to resinous, or negative,
electricity.
Vitreous humor. (Anat.) See the Note under Eye.
Vitreous sponge (Zool.), any one of numerous species of
siliceous sponges having, often fibrous, glassy spicules
which are normally six-rayed; a hexactinellid sponge. See
Venus's basket, under Venus.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
Voltaic electricity
(gcide) | Voltaic \Vol*ta"ic\, a. [Cf. F. volta["i]que, It. voltaico.]
[1913 Webster]
1. Of or pertaining to Alessandro Volta, who first devised
apparatus for developing electric currents by chemical
action, and established this branch of electric science;
discovered by Volta; as, voltaic electricity.
[1913 Webster]
2. Of or pertaining to voltaism, or voltaic electricity; as,
voltaic induction; the voltaic arc.
[1913 Webster]
Note: See the Note under Galvanism.
[1913 Webster]
Voltaic arc, a luminous arc, of intense brilliancy, formed
between carbon points as electrodes by the passage of a
powerful voltaic current.
Voltaic battery, an apparatus variously constructed,
consisting of a series of plates or pieces of dissimilar
metals, as copper and zinc, arranged in pairs, and
subjected to the action of a saline or acid solution, by
which a current of electricity is generated whenever the
two poles, or ends of the series, are connected by a
conductor; a galvanic battery. See Battery, 4.
(b), and Note.
Voltaic circuit. See under Circuit.
Voltaic couple or Voltaic element, a single pair of the
connected plates of a battery.
Voltaic electricity. See the Note under Electricity.
Voltaic pile, a kind of voltaic battery consisting of
alternate disks of dissimilar metals, separated by
moistened cloth or paper. See 5th Pile.
Voltaic protection of metals, the protection of a metal
exposed to the corrosive action of sea water, saline or
acid liquids, or the like, by associating it with a metal
which is positive to it, as when iron is galvanized, or
coated with zinc.
[1913 Webster]Electricity \E`lec*tric"i*ty\ ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[y^]),
n.; pl. Electricities ([=e]`l[e^]k*tr[i^]s"[i^]*t[i^]z).
[Cf. F. ['e]lectricit['e]. See Electric.]
1. (Physics) a property of certain of the fundamental
particles of which matter is composed, called also
electric charge, and being of two types, designated
positive and negative; the property of electric charge on
a particle or physical body creates a force field which
affects other particles or bodies possessing electric
charge; positive charges create a repulsive force between
them, and negative charges also create a repulsive force.
A positively charged body and a negatively charged body
will create an attractive force between them. The unit of
electrical charge is the coulomb, and the intensity of
the force field at any point is measured in volts.
[PJC]
2. any of several phenomena associated with the accumulation
or movement of electrically charged particles within
material bodies, classified as static electricity and
electric current. Static electricity is often observed
in everyday life, when it causes certain materials to
cling together; when sufficient static charge is
accumulated, an electric current may pass through the air
between two charged bodies, and is observed as a visible
spark; when the spark passes from a human body to another
object it may be felt as a mild to strong painful
sensation. Electricity in the form of electric current is
put to many practical uses in electrical and electronic
devices. Lightning is also known to be a form of electric
current passing between clouds and the ground, or between
two clouds. Electric currents may produce heat, light,
concussion, and often chemical changes when passed between
objects or through any imperfectly conducting substance or
space. Accumulation of electrical charge or generation of
a voltage differnce between two parts of a complex object
may be caused by any of a variety of disturbances of
molecular equilibrium, whether from a chemical, physical,
or mechanical, cause. Electric current in metals and most
other solid coductors is carried by the movement of
electrons from one part of the metal to another. In ionic
solutions and in semiconductors, other types of movement
of charged particles may be responsible for the observed
electrical current.
[PJC]
Note: Electricity is manifested under following different
forms: (a)
Statical electricity, called also
Frictional electricity or Common electricity, electricity
in the condition of a stationary charge, in which the
disturbance is produced by friction, as of glass, amber,
etc., or by induction. (b)
Dynamical electricity, called also
Voltaic electricity, electricity in motion, or as a current
produced by chemical decomposition, as by means of a
voltaic battery, or by mechanical action, as by
dynamo-electric machines. (c)
Thermoelectricity, in which the disturbing cause is heat
(attended possibly with some chemical action). It is
developed by uniting two pieces of unlike metals in a bar,
and then heating the bar unequally. (d)
Atmospheric electricity, any condition of electrical
disturbance in the atmosphere or clouds, due to some or
all of the above mentioned causes. (e)
Magnetic electricity, electricity developed by the action
of magnets. (f)
Positive electricity, the electricity that appears at the
positive pole or anode of a battery, or that is produced
by friction of glass; -- called also {vitreous
electricity}. (g)
Negative electricity, the electricity that appears at the
negative pole or cathode, or is produced by the friction
of resinous substance; -- called also resinous
electricity. (h)
Organic electricity, that which is developed in organic
structures, either animal or vegetable, the phrase animal
electricity being much more common.
[1913 Webster]
3. The science which studies the phenomena and laws of
electricity; electrical science.
[1913 Webster]
4. Fig.: excitement, anticipation, or emotional tension,
usually caused by the occurrence or expectation of
something unusual or important. |
atmospheric electricity
(wn) | atmospheric electricity
n 1: electrical discharges in the atmosphere |
bioelectricity
(wn) | bioelectricity
n 1: electric phenomena in animals or plants |
conservation of electricity
(wn) | conservation of electricity
n 1: the principle that the total electric charge of a system
remains constant despite changes inside the system [syn:
conservation of charge, conservation of electricity] |
current electricity
(wn) | current electricity
n 1: a flow of electric charge [syn: dynamic electricity,
current electricity] |
dynamic electricity
(wn) | dynamic electricity
n 1: a flow of electric charge [syn: dynamic electricity,
current electricity] |
electricity
(wn) | electricity
n 1: a physical phenomenon associated with stationary or moving
electrons and protons
2: energy made available by the flow of electric charge through
a conductor; "they built a car that runs on electricity"
[syn: electricity, electrical energy]
3: keen and shared excitement; "the stage crackled with
electricity whenever she was on it" |
hydroelectricity
(wn) | hydroelectricity
n 1: electricity produced by water power |
photoelectricity
(wn) | photoelectricity
n 1: electricity generated by light or affected by light |
piezoelectricity
(wn) | piezoelectricity
n 1: electricity produced by mechanical pressure on certain
crystals (notably quartz or Rochelle salt); alternatively,
electrostatic stress produces a change in the linear
dimensions of the crystal [syn: piezoelectricity,
piezoelectric effect, piezo effect] |
pyroelectricity
(wn) | pyroelectricity
n 1: generation of an electric charge on certain crystals (such
as tourmaline) as a result of a change in temperature |
static electricity
(wn) | static electricity
n 1: electricity produced by friction |
thermoelectricity
(wn) | thermoelectricity
n 1: electricity produced by heat (as in a thermocouple) |
electricity
(devil) | ELECTRICITY, n. The power that causes all natural phenomena not known
to be caused by something else. It is the same thing as lightning,
and its famous attempt to strike Dr. Franklin is one of the most
picturesque incidents in that great and good man's career. The memory
of Dr. Franklin is justly held in great reverence, particularly in
France, where a waxen effigy of him was recently on exhibition,
bearing the following touching account of his life and services to
science:
"Monsieur Franqulin, inventor of electricity. This
illustrious savant, after having made several voyages around the
world, died on the Sandwich Islands and was devoured by savages,
of whom not a single fragment was ever recovered."
Electricity seems destined to play a most important part in the
arts and industries. The question of its economical application to
some purposes is still unsettled, but experiment has already proved
that it will propel a street car better than a gas jet and give more
light than a horse.
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