CRITICAL MASS Meaning and
Definition
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Critical mass is a term that originated in the fields of physics and nuclear engineering, but has since been adopted in various other contexts. In its most literal sense, critical mass refers to the minimum amount of a radioactive material required to sustain a chain reaction. This is the point at which the rate of nuclear fission reactions equals the rate of neutrons being lost, resulting in a self-sustaining and potentially explosive reaction.
Beyond its nuclear connotation, critical mass has evolved to symbolize the point at which a sufficient amount, size, or momentum of something is reached to trigger a significant and often irreversible change or transformation. It denotes the point at which the cumulative effect becomes powerful enough to provoke a major shift, whether it be in the form of a societal movement, a paradigm shift in thinking, or a revolutionary innovation.
In a social or political context, critical mass is often associated with a collective threshold of engagement or mobilization necessary to bring about change or influence decisions. It suggests that until a certain number or percentage of individuals or groups are actively involved or united in a cause, the desired outcome may not be achievable. At the same time, it implies that once this threshold is surpassed, the resultant force can become unstoppable and have far-reaching consequences.
Overall, critical mass represents a tipping point or a transformative moment when the combination of quantity, intensity, or involvement reaches a level that sparks a significant shift, whether it be explosive, revolutionary, or momentous in nature.
Common Misspellings for CRITICAL MASS
Etymology of CRITICAL MASS
The term "critical mass" originated in the field of nuclear physics during the 1940s. It refers to the minimum amount of fissile material required to sustain a nuclear chain reaction. This term was then borrowed and metaphorically applied to various other contexts. The etymology of "critical" can be traced back to the Latin word "criticus", meaning able to discern or judge, which was derived from the Greek word "kritikos". The term "mass" can be traced back to the Latin word "massa", which means a lump or a mass, and it has its roots in the Greek word "maza". So, the term "critical mass" combines these two elements, indicating a crucial or decisive amount of something required to trigger a particular event or outcome.
Similar spelling words for CRITICAL MASS
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