critical angle
The term "critical angle" has specific meanings in different fields such as optics, aviation, and architecture, describing crucial thresholds related to light, airfoil performance, and safety, respectively.
Definition
C1Optics
(technical, academic)The minimum angle of incidence at which light is completely reflected within a medium rather than passing into another medium.
Example
- When the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle, total internal reflection occurs.
C1Aviation
(technical, academic)The angle of attack at which an airfoil stalls, leading to a loss of lift and an increase in drag.
Example
- Pilots must avoid exceeding the critical angle to prevent stalling.
C2Architecture
(technical)The angle at which a ramp or stairs becomes uncomfortable or unsafe for use.
Example
- Designers ensure that ramps do not exceed the critical angle for safety.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "critical angle":
total internal reflectionangle of incidenceangle forright anglevertical angleangle shotplane angleangle quoteangle shootingalternate anglesangle bar