Definition

A measure of how well a material can store electrical energy when an electric field is applied to it.

Example

The permittivity of the material affects how capacitors function in electronic circuits.

Conversation

Have you heard about the concept of permittivity in physics?

Yeah, it has something to do with how materials react to electric fields, right?

Exactly! It measures how well a material can store electrical energy when an electric field is applied.

That's pretty interesting! I didn't realize it was such an important property.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Permittivity is formed from "permittere" (meaning to allow) and the suffix "-ivity" (indicating a quality or state). The word refers to the quality or state of allowing electric field lines to pass through a material, thus describing how easily a material can permit electric field lines.

Memory Tip

Think of 'allowing' ('permittere') something to happen, and remember that 'permittivity' describes how easily a material allows electric fields to pass through it.

Visually Confused Words