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.

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.

1 Use in physics
2 Use in gemmology
3 Use in philosophy
4 See also
5 References

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]

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.

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.

References

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

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