Energy Flux

Energy flux is the rate of transfer of energy through a surface. The quantity is defined in two different ways, depending on the context:

  1. Rate of energy transfer per unit area. (SI units: W·m−2 = J·m−2·s−1)
    • This is a vector quantity, its components being determined in terms of the normal (perpendicular) direction to the surface of measurement.
    • This is sometimes called energy flux density, to distinguish it from the second definition.
    • Radiative flux, heat flux, and sound energy flux are specific cases of energy flux density.
  2. Total rate of energy transfer. (SI units: W = J·s−1)
    • This is sometimes informally called energy current.

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Famous quotes containing the words energy and/or flux:

    I have witnessed the tremendous energy of the masses. On this foundation it is possible to accomplish any task whatsoever.
    Mao Zedong (1893–1976)

    Sense is a line, the mind is a circle. Sense is like a line which is the flux of a point running out from itself, but intellect like a circle that keeps within itself.
    Ralph J. Cudworth (1617–1688)