-ics, -tics [-ac after i]

1. The science of sound and the phenomena of hearing: Elaine's doctor undertook specialized studies in acoustics in order to work more efficiently with elderly patients who were having hearing difficulties.
2. In physics, the study of sounds, including their productions, transmissions, and general effects: The laboratory for acoustics at the university was outfitted with the latest technology and equipment for analyzing audible and inaudible vibrations.

Acoustics often determines how well sounds can be heard in the structural features of a room, a hall, an auditorium, etc.

3. In architecture:

• The sum of the qualities, as absence of echo or reverberation, that determine the value of a room or auditorium with respect to distinct hearing: The famous symphony conductor tested the acoustics of the newly build performance hall and announced that the sound was very good.
• The science of planning and building an enclosure so that sound will be perfectly transmitted to the people who are in it: The newly hired engineer for the architecture firm had her engineering degree in acoustics and seemed the ideal candidate to work on the new performance hall.

4. The part of psychology dealing with hearing: Because his hearing was distorted after his emotional anxiety and inner turmoil, Jason was referred to a psychologist who specialized in medical acoustics. © ALL rights are reserved.

Go to this Word A Day Revisited Index
for a list of additional Mickey Bach illustrations.

Here is a special article about acoustics.

The use of microwave sound waves traveling through specialized solids: Acoustoelectronics is usually done with crystals or metals that react when bombarded with the noise and the processing of such vibrations.

The science and technology of the interactions between sound waves and light waves passing through solid materials, especially as applied to the modulation and deflection of laser beams by ultrasonic waves which are important in laser and holographic technologies: Samuel Waters was intent on perfecting a system of acousto-optics to enable him to expand his holographic business which printed passes for the local bus system.

The science of radiation: Tom's father worked in the area of actinogenics which had to do with different kinds of rays, like ionising radiation and electromagnetic waves.

The use of light rays for the treatment of skin diseases: Actinotherapeutics is used for treating cutaneous ailments by exposing the outer surface of the body to ultraviolet light.

1. Treatment of disease by means of light rays.
2. In dermatology, ultraviolet light therapy.

The study of sound transmission through the air, especially in terms of the effects of environmental noise from machines, vehicles, aircraft, etc.: The planning of a new airport near the city involved a comprehensive aeroacoustics to determine the impact of the sounds of the aircraft on living conditions for people who lived in the area.

Spectacular feats done with an airplane; stunt flying: The spectators standing on the ground watched the aerobatics or the skilful displays of the plane, like the loops, rolls, and the dives.

An active exercise program done with music and often in a class or group: Aerobics is a system of physical conditioning to enhance circulatory and respiratory efficiency that involves vigorous and sustained exercise, like jogging, swimming, or cycling, and thereby improving the body's use of oxygen.

The study dealing with the stability of a flying machine: Mark had to learn all about aerodenetics before being allowed to sore or fly with a glider.

The branch of dentistry which is concerned with the teeth of those who are flying at high altitudes: Aerodontics pertains to an individual's teeth in a situation of increased or reduced atmospheric pressure.

Aerodentia is deals with the prevention and treatment of aerodontalgia.

1. The field of dynamics that deals with air and other gases in motion, the forces that set them in motion, and the results of such motions: Aerodynamics is the study of the effects of air in motion on an object, either on objects moving through air, such as aircrafts or automobiles, or stationary objects affected by moving air, for example bridges or tall buildings.

The two primary forces in aerodynamics are lift and drag.

"Lift" refers to, usually upward, forces perpendicular to the direction of motion of an object traveling through the air. For example, airplane wings are designed so that their movement through the air creates an area of low pressure above the wing and an area of high pressure beneath it. The pressure difference produces the lift needed for flight which is typical of "airfoil" design.

"Drag" forces are parallel and opposite to the object's direction of motion and are caused largely by friction.

Large wings can create a significant amount of lift, but they do so at the expense of generating a great deal of drag. Extended "spoilers" on aircraft wings make the the wings capable of high lift even at low speeds, so low landing speeds can still provide enough lift for a gentle "touchdown".

The branch of meteorology that deals with atmospheric conditions: Aerographics is concerned with aerial mapping and for imaging technologies to meet demanding schedules and budgets of aircraft.

The scientific study of the Earth's magnetic characteristics as measured from the air: Aeromagnetics is especially interesting and can be exciting when it pertains to thunderstorms!

The scientific study of air and other gases in motion or in equilibrium: Aeromechanics deals with the effect of solid bodies in the flow of the air and gases.

Aeromechanics also includes the two distinct branches of aerodynamics and aerostatics.