ground state

ground state

n.

The state of least possible energy in a physical system, as of atoms or molecules.

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ground state,

1 the lowest energy level of a physical system. See also fatigue state.

2 the stable form of an atom or molecule.

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state [stāt]

condition or situation.

alpha state the state of relaxation and peaceful awakefulness associated with prominent alpha brain wave activity.

anxiety state the condition of experiencing undue anxiety, as in anxiety disorders.

excited state the condition of a nucleus, atom, or molecule produced by the addition of energy to the system as the result of absorption of photons or of inelastic collisions with other particles or systems.

ground state the condition of lowest energy of a nucleus, atom, or molecule.

persistent vegetative state a condition of profound nonresponsiveness in the wakeful state caused by brain damage at whatever level and characterized by a nonfunctioning cerebral cortex, the absence of any discernible adaptive response to the external environment, akinesia, mutism, and inability to signal; the electroencephalogram may be isoelectric or show abnormal activity. Vegetative states raise ethical questions regarding appropriate care, use of resources, and allowing a patient to die.

refractory state a condition of subnormal excitability of muscle and nerve following excitation.

resting state the physiologic condition achieved by complete bed rest for at least 1 hour.

steady state dynamic equilibrium.

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ground state,

n the state of a nucleus, an atom, or a molecule when it has its lowest energy. All other states are termed
excited.

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state

condition or situation.

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excited state

the condition of a nucleus, atom or molecule produced by the addition of energy to the system as the result of absorption of photons or of inelastic collisions with other particles or systems.

ground state

the condition of lowest energy of a nucleus, atom or molecule.

refractory state

a condition of subnormal excitability of muscle and nerve following excitation.

resting state

the physiological condition achieved by complete rest for at least 1 hour.

steady state

dynamic equilibrium.