Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cavitation

noun
/ˌkævɪˈteɪʃən/
Definition
The formation of vapor cavities in a liquid.
Examples
  • Cavitation can cause wear on propeller blades in watercraft.
  • Engineers must consider cavitation when designing hydraulic systems.
  • The dentist explained that cavitation in the tooth could lead to further decay.
Meaning
Cavitation occurs when the pressure in a liquid drops significantly, leading to the formation of small vapor-filled bubbles or cavities. These bubbles can collapse violently, potentially causing damage to surrounding surfaces.
Synonyms
  • Vaporization
  • Bubble formation
  • Implosion