Definition

Relating to the visible surface of a star, especially the sun, where light is emitted.

Example

The photospheric temperature of the sun is about 5,500 degrees Celsius.

Conversation

Did you know that the sun's photospheric layer is where most of the sunlight comes from?

Really? I always thought it was just the surface of the sun.

Yeah, it’s fascinating how the photospheric activity affects solar flares.

That makes sense! I should read more about solar phenomena.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Photospheric → It is formed from "photo-" (from Greek "phōs", meaning light) and "spheric" (from Greek "sphaira", meaning sphere). The word "photospheric" refers to the light-emitting layer of a star, particularly the sun, which is spherical in shape.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light' ('photo-') coming from a 'sphere' ('spheric') — that's why photospheric relates to the light-emitting layer of a star.

Visually Confused Words