zero-point energy

[zeer-oh-point]

noun

Physics.

1. energy in a substance at the temperature of absolute zero.

zero-point energy

1. The irreducible minimum energy possessed by a physical system, as of a substance at a temperature of absolute zero. The zero point energy of a vacuum is not zero due to vacuum fluctuations.

2. See Note at absolute zero

Word History and Origins

Origin of zero-point energy¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

If so, then quantum sails are just the beginning; it would be possible to make engines that run solely on zero-point energy.

From Literature

Even if those concerns were valid, it seems all but impossible to propel a spaceship with zero-point energy.

From Literature

It is unlikely that his device to harness the zero-point energy will be any different.

From Literature

Quantum mechanics has a similar problem, a problem related to the zero-point energy.

From Literature

Since the vacuum everywhere in the universe is seething with a quantum foam of virtual particles, the fabric of the universe is filled with infinite zero-point energy.

From Literature