noun the quality or state of being metastable
In computer science, metastability can occur in asynchronous systems where signals may arrive at different times, leading to uncertainty in the output state of a system.
Metastability in chemistry refers to a state of a substance that is kinetically stable but not thermodynamically stable, meaning it can persist for a long time but will eventually undergo a transformation to a more stable form.
In physics, metastability is a phenomenon where a system is in a stable state but can transition to a different state if perturbed, but will return to the original state if the perturbation is removed.
Metastability refers to the behavior of digital circuits where the output can become unstable due to timing issues, causing the circuit to temporarily exist in an ambiguous state.
In the field of writing, metastability can be used to describe a character's internal struggle or conflicting emotions that lead to a state of uncertainty or unpredictability.
Psychologists may use the concept of metastability to understand and analyze the dynamics of human behavior, particularly in cases where individuals experience conflicting thoughts or emotions.
Engineers may encounter metastability in the design of electronic circuits, where it refers to a state in which a system can exist in multiple stable states, leading to potential issues in signal processing or data transmission.
Biologists may study metastability in biological systems, such as gene regulatory networks, where it can indicate a state of instability or susceptibility to perturbations.
Physicists may use metastability to describe the behavior of certain physical systems, such as materials with metastable phases that can exist in a state of temporary equilibrium before transitioning to a more stable state.