ScienceAugust 17, 2026
ambipolar
AM-bi-poh-ler
Definition
Relating to a process in plasma or ionized gas where two different types of charge carriers, such as ions and electrons, move in response to an electric or magnetic field.
Etymology
Derived from the prefix 'ambi-' meaning 'both' (referring to both positive and negative charges) and 'polar' from the Greek 'polos' meaning 'axis' or 'pivot'.
In the news
The article uses this term to describe 'ambipolar diffusion,' a process where neutral gas particles drift past magnetic-field-linked ions, allowing gravity to eventually trigger star formation.
Scientists detect key process that triggers new star formation
Read the full article ↗The Brighter Side of News