Definition

The process where bubbles form and collapse in a liquid, often caused by mechanical forces or rapid movement, which can create cavities in materials or tissues.

Example

Cavitation can cause damage to the propeller blades of a ship due to the rapid formation and collapse of bubbles in the water.

Conversation

I heard that cavitation can really damage boat propellers.

Yeah, it's crazy how those bubbles can form and collapse so quickly.

It's fascinating how something like cavitation can cause so much wear and tear.

Definitely! That's why proper maintenance is so important for boats.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cavitation is formed from "cavus" (meaning hollow) and the suffix "-ation" (indicating a process or action). The term describes the process of forming cavities or bubbles in a liquid, particularly due to pressure changes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hollow' ('cavus') to remember that 'cavitation' refers to the process of forming hollow spaces or bubbles in a liquid.

Visually Confused Words