Word
spectra
Phoneticsspec·tra
US/ˈspɛktɹə/
UK/spˈɛktɹɐ/
Definition
n. the plural form of spectrum. It refers to a wide range of different ideas, colors, or qualities that are related to each other.
n. the plural of 'spectrum'; refers to the distributions of light, sound, or other physical phenomena by frequency or wavelength. In a broader sense, it describes wide ranges of related ideas, qualities, or activities.
Examples
“Scientists study the light spectra of distant stars.”
“The researchers compared the absorption spectra of various chemical compounds to identify the unknown substance.”
“By analyzing the emission spectra of these gases, astronomers can determine the chemical composition and temperature of nebulae located thousands of light-years away.”
Examples
simple
“Scientists study the light spectra of distant stars.”
contextual
“The researchers compared the absorption spectra of various chemical compounds to identify the unknown substance.”
complex
“By analyzing the emission spectra of these gases, astronomers can determine the chemical composition and temperature of nebulae located thousands of light-years away.”
Usage
The plural form of 'spectrum'; takes a plural verb. In non-scientific contexts, 'spectrums' is sometimes used, but 'spectra' remains the standard in academic and technical writing.
Pitfall
This spectra shows a high peak
These spectra show a high peak
Spectra is the plural form; it requires a plural demonstrative and verb agreement.
Real-World Examples
Common in science writing
“Early spectra also showed ejecta racing outward at roughly 40,000 kilometers per second (25,000 miles per second).” “And yet, no water ice is indicated by the spectra of any of the three moons studied or their rings.” Scan code
englishreference.com/q/spectra