Encyclopedic Dictionary of Electronics and Nuclear Engineering [antikvár]

ForewordAn encyclopedic dictionary is one of man's finest intellectual achievements. It is the means by which he seeks to establish order out of a confusion of terms, definitions, and ideas.A dictionary of specialized terms provides an essential basis for effective communication, and such communication is the essence of scientific growth and progress. This dictionary is especially valuable, for the fields of electronics and nuclear engineering have undergone so rapid an expansion in the past decade that a new jargon has sprung into being. Several of the professional societies have achieved considerable progress in standardizing many of the specialized terms in their areas. Dr. Sarbacher has made optimum use of these efforts and applied his own substantial background and personal insight to integrating, equating and extending the bases for standardized terminology.In providing such a service, an encyclopedic dictionary of specialized terms becomes simultaneously a contribution to the advance of knowledge and a tool for science and technology.A. V. Astin, Ph.D.Director,National Bureau of StandardsPrefaceThis encyclopedic dictionary, a comprehensive reference work in electronics and nuclear engineering, is designed for the scientist, technician, or student working in these related fields. The problem of communication is especially acute in those technical projects where a team of specialists representing a wide variety of engineering fields is working together. The author has endeavored to supply an aid to such communication in electronics, nucleonics, and nuclear engineering by presenting a readily usable dictionary of the specialized vocabulary which does not fall within the scope of general dictionaries of the English language.In many instances pertinent supplementary information is provided in addition to the basic definition of a term. In this dictionary a number of terms are included which, strictly, are not unique to electronic or nuclear terminologies. An understanding of basic theory is prerequisite to an understanding of special theory and practice; therefore, terms of elemental electric and magnetic theory and atomic physics have been included, as well as a number of definitions from the broader principles of physics.Extensive cross-referencing has been provided so that related entries may be studied and compared or contrasted. To avoid confusion, entries are in strict alphabetical order, with the exception of some entries which include numbers; e.g., lBM-701 (which follows IBM-650), K-25 (which follows K), etc. Note that, in accordance with this plan, Capacitors, series-parallel connected is found between Capacitor R-meter and Capacitor start motor. For a single adjective familiar in two forms, and whose differing precise meanings have become obscured in the tendency to confuse usages, both forms are presented, the suffix -al being given in parentheses; e.g., acoustic(al), electric{al). The {al) is not considered for purposes of alphabetization. For example. Acoustics, ray is found between Acoustic(al) spectrum and Acousticial) stiffness. Also, subscripts are not considered for purposes of alphabetization; i.e., rL, wave entries follow Tetrode and not Telpher.Wherever practicable, definitions prepared and approved by the various professional societies have been used. The author acknowledges with gratitude the cooperation of the following societies and organizations:American Artists Professional League (AAPL) Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) American Standards Association (ASA)