gravity wave

The term "gravity wave" refers to different phenomena in meteorology and astrophysics, both involving the force of gravity.

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Definition

C1Meteorology

(technical)A wave in the atmosphere caused by gravity acting to restore air displaced from its equilibrium position.

Example

  • Mountain ranges often generate gravity waves that affect weather patterns.

C2Astrophysics

(technical)A ripple in spacetime produced by accelerating massive objects, such as merging black holes.

Example

  • The detection of gravity waves has opened a new window into observing the universe.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "gravity wave":

gravitational wavewave throughlight waveshock wavetravelling wavetidal wavewave packetcarrier wavepilot wavecosmic gravitational-wave backgroundpink wave