ScienceSeptember 2, 2026

nonradiative

non-RAY-dee-uh-tiv

Definition

Relating to energy transfer or physical effects that do not involve the emission of electromagnetic radiation (light or heat).

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'non-' (not) and the Latin 'radiare' (to emit rays), which entered English in the 17th century to describe the propagation of waves or energy.

In the news

The article mentions nonradiative effects, such as collisions with interstellar dust, to clarify that the study focuses exclusively on the physics of light rather than physical impacts.

Interstellar solar sails hit a strange problem at 75% of light speed

Read the full article ↗

Science Daily

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