Intrinsic and extrinsic properties

For intrinsic and extrinsic properties in philosophy, see Intrinsic and extrinsic properties (philosophy)

An intrinsic property is an essential or inherent property of a system or of a material itself or within. It is independent of how much of the material is present and is independent of the form the material, e.g., one large piece or a collection of smaller pieces. Intrinsic properties are dependent mainly on the chemical composition or structure of the material.[1]

A property that is not essential or inherent is called an extrinsic property. For example, density is a physical intrinsic property of any physical object, whereas weight is an extrinsic property that varies depending on the strength of the gravitational field in which the respective object is placed.

For ex. in biology, intrinsic effects originate from inside an organism or cell, such as an autoimmune disease or intrinsic immunity.

See also

References

  1. ^ Food and Packaging Engineering (IFNHH, Massey University, NZ)