Word
surface area
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the total size of the outside layer of an object. You calculate it by adding up the areas of all the sides.
n. the total measure of the outer face or faces of a three-dimensional object. Used in geometry and physical sciences to determine rates of reaction or heat transfer.
Examples
“Rough paper has more surface area than smooth paper.”
“The internal walls of the lungs have a massive surface area to allow for faster oxygen absorption.”
“In chemical engineering, increasing the surface area of a catalyst typically accelerates the reaction rate by providing more sites for molecular interaction to occur simultaneously.”
Examples
simple
“Rough paper has more surface area than smooth paper.”
contextual
“The internal walls of the lungs have a massive surface area to allow for faster oxygen absorption.”
complex
“In chemical engineering, increasing the surface area of a catalyst typically accelerates the reaction rate by providing more sites for molecular interaction to occur simultaneously.”
Usage
Usually uncountable in general scientific contexts; may be countable when comparing the specific areas of multiple discrete objects.
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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