air gap

noun

Electricity. the space between two objects magnetically related, as between the rotor and the stator in a dynamo, or between two objects electrically related, as between the electrode and the tip of a spark plug.

Origin of air gap¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

But it is only by raising the voltage of the current that even a short air gap can be bridged by the spark.

The current crosses the air-gap between the metal and the negative pole, forms an arc, and rapidly fuses the metal.

The air-gap flux per pole, therefore, depends on the current taken by the motor.

The torque produced is proportional to the product of the air-gap flux per pole and the armature current.

Our terrestrial voltages are baffled by an air-gap of a few inches, but lightning springs across a gap miles wide.

April 23, 2024inveterate

[in-vet-er-it ]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse