Alfvén wave

noun

: a transverse electromagnetic wave that propagates along the lines of force in a magnetized plasma

Word History

Etymology

after Hannes Alfvén †1995 Swedish astrophysicist

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Alfvén wave was in 1956

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Dictionary Entries Near Alfvén wave

Alfvénic

Alfvén wave

alg

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Cite this Entry

“Alfvén wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Alfv%C3%A9n%20wave. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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