Phenomenon

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For other uses, see Phenomena (disambiguation).
The combustion of this match is an observable occurrence, or event, and therefore a phenomenon.
The combustion of this match is an observable occurrence, or event, and therefore a phenomenon.

A phenomenon (from Greek φαινόμενoν, pl. φαινόμενα - phenomena) is any occurrence that is observable.[1] In popular usage, a phenomenon often refers to an extraordinary event.

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[edit] Use in physics

In physics phenomena are the subject of observation. A phenomenon may be a feature of matter, energy, or spacetime. For example, Isaac Newton made observations of the phenomenon of the moon's orbit. Additionally, Galileo Galilei made observations of pendulum related phenomena.[2]

[edit] Use in gemmology

In gemmology a phenomenon is an unusual optical effect displayed by a gem. Play-of-color, labradorescence, iridescence, adularescence, chatoyancy, asterism, aventurescence and color change are all phenomena.

[edit] Use in philosophy

Main article: Phenomena (philosophy)

In philosophy, the use of the word phenomenon differs from other uses in that it refers to perceived events. Phenomena may be perceived through a person's senses or with their mind.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  1. ^ New Oxford American Dictionary (2nd ed.)
  2. ^ Jeremy Bernstein, A Theory for Everything, Copernicus, An imprint of Springer-Verlag, New York, 1996, hardback, ISBN 0-387-94700-0