What does hysteresis mean?
Hysteresis is a phenomenon in which a system's response to an external influence depends on its previous state, rather than just the current influence. This effect is commonly observed in magnetic materials, elastic materials, and biological systems. Hysteresis is characterized by a 'memory' of past events, which can lead to complex and nonlinear behavior. The concept of hysteresis is essential in understanding many natural and engineered systems, from magnetic resonance imaging machines to economic models. By accounting for hysteresis, scientists and engineers can better predict and control the behavior of complex systems.
nounThe phenomenon in which the response of a system to an external influence depends on the previous state of the system, and not just on the current influence. Hysteresis is often observed in magnetic materials, elastic materials, and biological systems.
- The phenomenon of hysteresis in physical systems
- Hysteresis in economics and other fields
"The hysteresis loop in the magnetization curve of a ferromagnetic material illustrates how the magnetic field lags behind the applied field."
"The hysteresis loop is a fundamental concept in materials science."
"In economics, hysteresis refers to the persistence of effects over time, even after the initial cause has ceased."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hysteresis
The term 'hysteresis' was coined by Sir James Alfred Ewing in 1881, derived from the Greek word ὑστέρα (hystera), meaning 'womb', as it was initially used to describe the lagging behavior of magnetic materials. The concept of hysteresis has since been applied to various fields, including economics, biology, and materials science.
Usage notes
Hysteresis is often used in a technical sense in physics, engineering, and materials science. In economics, it refers to the idea that economic variables can be influenced by their past values.