microphysics
/ˌmaɪkroʊˈfɪzɪks/
Definition
The study of small-scale physical processes and interactions, specifically the localized turbulence and mixing occurring within deep ocean waters.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'mikros' (small) and 'physis' (nature), combined with the English suffix '-ics' denoting a field of study. It was formed to denote the branch of physics dealing with particles or phenomena at a very small scale.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe the granular, small-scale mixing events in the deep ocean that are difficult to observe but essential for accurate global climate modeling. Recognizing these microphysics is key to understanding how heat and nutrients move through the Earth's oceans.
Tiny Underwater Waves in the Ocean Can Affect the Climate Thousands of Kilometres Away
Read the full article ↗ZME Science