Poisson

/ pwasɔ̃ /

noun

1. PoissonSiméon Denis17811840MFrenchSCIENCE: mathematician Siméon Denis (simeɔ̃ dəni). 1781–1840, French mathematician, noted for his application of mathematical theory to physics, esp electricity and magnetism

Example Sentences

The behavior of elastic materials is partially described by Poisson's ratio, which explains how the material changes shape when you stretch or squeeze it in one direction.

From Science Daily

Most materials have a positive Poisson's ratio, which means squeezing them in one direction will make them wider and/or thicker in other directions.

From Science Daily

Auxetics have a negative value of Poisson's ratio and do exactly the reverse.

From Science Daily

Another way of expressing Poisson's ratio is that it describes the relationship between shape and volume when one of these changes.

From Science Daily

As he prepared for the show to open in April, Di Donna gently blew on “Poisson” and it performed on cue, doing a delicately turning dance in response — a perfect bit of inspiration for art lovers who want to get in the swim of things this spring.

From New York Times