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vacuum energy

vacuum energy  n.— «What quantum theory says is that, powered by nothing whatsoever, the universe will still vibrate with what is sometimes called “vacuum energy” or “zero-point energy.”» —“The dark matter is the anti-matter source of...

sticky-wage theory

sticky-wage theory  n.— «The reason is something called the sticky-wage theory. Economists have long been puzzled by the fact that most businesses simply will not cut their workers’ pay, even in a downturn. Businesses routinely lay...

adiabaticity

adiabaticity  n.— «U.S. and French scientists say they’ve developed a new understanding of a process called adiabaticity that’s used to control atoms in magnetic resonance. Adiabatic processes are what physicists and engineers use to...

Origin of “On the Ball”

How about the phrase “on the ball”? A listener wonders if its origin derives from a landing maneuver on aircraft carriers. Does his theory hold water? This is part of a complete episode.

container syndrome

container syndrome  n.— «It’s a controversial theory, but a vocal contingent of doctors and physical therapists believe the strap-in chairs and carriers that millions of parents have come to rely on are contributing to an increase in cases...

mag-stripe

mag-stripe  n.— «In theory, overseas merchants are required to accept US cards (which are called “mag-stripe,” for the magnetic stripe that identifies each card).» —“HomeATM’s “PIN my Card” Solves Chip and PIN...

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