Definition

This term refers to the measure of how much radiation is absorbed by a surface compared to the amount of radiation that hits it.

Example

The absorptance of the material determines how much light it can absorb.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term absorptance?

No, I haven't! What does it mean?

It's basically the ratio of absorbed radiation to the light that hits a surface.

That makes sense! It sounds important for understanding how materials interact with light.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Absorptance is formed from "absorb" (from Latin "absorbere", meaning to suck in or soak up) and the suffix "-ance" (meaning the state or quality of). The word refers to the quality or state of being absorbed, particularly in the context of light or energy being taken in by a material.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sucking in' ('absorb') and the 'state' of that action ('-ance') to remember that absorptance refers to the quality of being absorbed.

Visually Confused Words