cavitation

[ kav-i-tey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the rapid formation and collapse of vapor pockets in a flowing liquid in regions of very low pressure, a frequent cause of structural damage to propellers, pumps, etc.
2. such a pocket formed in a flowing liquid.

cavitation

/ ˌkævɪˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. the formation of vapour- or gas-filled cavities in a flowing liquid when tensile stress is superimposed on the ambient pressure
2. the formation of cavities in a structure

cavitation

/ kăv′ĭ-tā′shən /

1. The formation of bubblelike gaps in a liquid. Mechanical forces, such as the moving blades of a ship's propeller or sudden negative changes in pressure, can cause cavitation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cavitation¹

First recorded in 1890–95; cavit(y) + -ation

Example Sentences

Scientists call that process inertial cavitation, and it’s the same science that makes it possible for ultrasound to clean your jewelry.

From Popular-Science

Sometimes a strike can even produce sonoluminescence, whereby the cavitation bubbles produce a brief flash of light as they collapse.

From Ars Technica

In marine engineering in slow-speed propellers (where cavitation does not come in) narrow blades are usually used.

From Project Gutenberg

The spec says quote shall be free from objectionable cavitation unquote.

From Project Gutenberg

Cavitation, Propeller—The tendency to produce a cavity in the air.

From Project Gutenberg