ScienceAugust 16, 2026

thermophysical

thur-mo-FIZ-i-kul

Definition

Relating to the physical properties of a material, specifically how its physical state or behavior changes in response to temperature.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'thermos' (heat) and the Greek 'physikos' (natural or physical), combined with the English suffix '-al' to form an adjective. It emerged in the 20th century as a technical term in physics and engineering.

In the news

The article uses 'thermophysical' to describe the measurements that the Compact Infrared Imaging System will perform on the lunar surface to understand its mineralogy and heat-related characteristics.

Space Coast launch schedule:

Read the full article ↗

Orlando Sentinel

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