PLASTICITY Meaning and
Definition
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Plasticity refers to the ability of matter or organisms to change shape, form, or behavior in response to external or internal influences. Derived from the Greek word "plassein" meaning "to shape" or "to mold," plasticity is a fundamental characteristic observed in various fields such as physics, biology, and psychology.
In the context of materials science, plasticity refers to the ability of a substance to permanently deform without breaking. For example, metals like aluminum and steel exhibit a high degree of plasticity, allowing them to be easily shaped through processes like forging or rolling.
In biology, plasticity refers to the adaptability of organisms to respond to different stimuli or environmental conditions. It describes an organism's ability to modify its behavior, structure, or physiological characteristics in order to survive and thrive. This trait can be observed in a wide range of living organisms, from simple bacteria that exhibit phenotypic plasticity in response to changing temperatures, to complex animals that display neuroplasticity, enabling them to learn and adapt through the formation of new connections in their brains.
In psychology, plasticity refers to the brain's ability to rearrange its neural pathways, synapses, and networks in response to experiences, learning, or injury. This concept is often referred to as neuroplasticity and is the basis for learning and memory formation. People possess different degrees of plasticity throughout their lifespan, with young children generally exhibiting greater plasticity than adults.
Overall, plasticity encompasses the malleability, adaptability, and capacity for change that can be observed in various systems, allowing them to adjust, develop, and respond to their surroundings.
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Capacity of being moulded.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for PLASTICITY *
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Other Common Misspellings for PLASTICITY
Etymology of PLASTICITY
The word "plasticity" traces its origins to the Greek term "plastikos", meaning "capable of being shaped or molded". This comes from the verb "plassein", which means "to mold or form". The term was originally used in the context of art and craftsmanship. In the 18th century, the meaning of "plastic" expanded to include the property of being able to mold, shape, or change in a physical or malleable way. This evolved into the modern usage of "plasticity" in various fields, including biology, psychology, and materials science, to refer to the ability of an organism or material to change and adapt in response to various stimuli or experiences.
Similar spelling words for PLASTICITY
- plastic bomb,
- plastinate,
- plasticise,
- plastic film,
- plastic,
- plastination,
- plastic art,
- plasticiser,
- plastique,
- plastering,
- plastic bag,
- plasticize,
- plasticine,
- plastically,
- plasticizer,
- plastid,
- plastic wrap.
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