Q-factor

[ kyoo-fak-ter ]

noun

1. See Q ³( def 6 ).

Q factor

noun

1. a measure of the relationship between stored energy and rate of energy dissipation in certain electrical components, devices, etc, thus indicating their efficiency
2. Also calledQ value the heat released in a nuclear reaction, usually expressed in millions of electronvolts for each individual reaction Q

Word History and Origins

Origin of Q-factor¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Word History and Origins

Origin of Q-factor¹

C20: short for quality factor

Example Sentences

However, something called the Q-factor—which combines elements like eloquence, team-building skills, and creativity—might help.

From Science Magazine

It takes a while to nail down: The authors found that calculating a scientist’s Q-factor requires at least 20 papers and 10 years of citations.

From Science Magazine

Sinatra, meanwhile, says she hasn’t calculated her own Q-factor.

From Science Magazine

All of those nonrandom differences between people—eloquence, team-building skills, and creativity—boiled down to a parameter in the model called Q. The authors found that calculating a scientist’s Q-factor requires at least 20 papers and 10 years of citations.

From Science Magazine