nucleation
NOO-klee-AY-shun
Definition
The initial stage of a phase transition, such as the formation of crystals, bubbles, or droplets from a liquid or gaseous medium.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'nucleus,' meaning 'kernel' or 'nut,' combined with the suffix '-ation' to denote a process. The term was adopted into science to describe the formation of a 'seed' or core around which larger structures grow.
In the news
In the article, nucleation is discussed in the context of physics experiments where stirring or cooling rates influence how molecules organize into solid structures during experiments conducted on the International Space Station. Understanding these kinetics is vital for material science research in microgravity.
NASA Spaceline Current Awareness List #1,209 24 July 2026 (Space Life Science Research Results)
Read the full article ↗Astrobiology Web