fine structure

American  

[fahyn] / faɪn /

noun

Physics.

1. a group of lines that are observed in the spectra of certain elements, as hydrogen, and that are caused by various couplings of the azimuthal quantum number and the angular momentum quantum number.

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fine structure British  

noun

1. the splitting of a spectral line into two or more closely spaced components as a result of interaction between the spin and orbital angular momenta of the atomic electrons Compare hyperfine structure

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Etymology

Origin of fine structure

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

This instrument can detect extremely fine structures in the solar atmosphere and measure even the slightest motion of plasma.

From Science Daily

Despite this coverage of sensors measuring the magnetic field, "diagnosing the detailed fine structure is a nightmare," Mann said, since the magnetic effects from smaller scale structures can magnetically cancel on the ground.

From Salon

The method, she says, can preserve “the fine structure of very, very small parts of cells” better than the chemical fixatives normally used in microscopy.

From Science Magazine

Much to the team's surprise, Webb's view of the PAH emission highlights the galactic wind's fine structure -- an aspect previously unknown.

From Science Daily

This preserves their hydration and fine structure and thus their native state.

From Science Daily