Definition of Aitken nucleus
meteorology
: a microscopic aerosol particle in the atmosphere that encourages condensation to gather into a droplet Using air samples collected from a 65-foot tower in a eucalyptus forest in Portugal, the researchers found an abundance of tiny aerosols, known as Aitken nuclei, that could only have been produced locally. — Henry Fountain, New York Times, 3 Nov. 1998
Explore Merriam-Webster
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
Origin and Etymology of aitken nucleus
after John Aitken †1919 Scottish meteorologist and engineer
First Known Use: 1906
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up Aitken nucleus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!