ballistic transport

noun

physics
: a phenomenon in physics where electrons travel at high speeds within a medium (such as a semiconductor) without scattering off of obstacles (such as atoms or other electrons)
Small conventional devices have been demonstrated to enter an ultra-high-speed mode of conduction called ballistic transport.Predicasts Technology Update, 29 Jan. 1983

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ballistic transport was in 1979

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near ballistic transport

Cite this Entry

“Ballistic transport.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ballistic%20transport. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!