zero-point energy
Americannoun
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The irreducible minimum energy possessed by a physical system, as of a substance at a temperature of absolute zero. The zero point energy of a vacuum is not zero due to vacuum fluctuations.
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See Note at absolute zero
Etymology
Origin of zero-point energy
First recorded in 1930–35
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I was unable to reach Garcia, but his website, DrGarciaQuantumHealing.com, outlines his belief that quantum physics and "zero-point energy" point the way toward advanced healing techniques.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 11, 2014
The first two are considered nonsensical, and while zero-point energy has a basis in science, using it to run a machine does not.
From Time Magazine Archive
Still others claim they're tapping the "zero-point energy" that fills all space.
From Time Magazine Archive
As with the zero-point energy, scientists learned to ignore the infinite mass and charge of the electron.
From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife
If so, then quantum sails are just the beginning; it would be possible to make engines that run solely on zero-point energy.
From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
