heat of fusion

noun, Physics.
1.
the heat absorbed by a unit mass of a given solid at its melting point that completely converts the solid to a liquid at the same temperature: equal to the heat of solidification.
Compare latent heat.
Examples from the web for heat of fusion
  • Most of ice's heat-removing capability comes from its so-called latent heat of fusion.
  • The latent heat of fusion is treated within the function defining specific heat.
  • These materials have melting points above room temperature where they would absorb significant energy due to their heat of fusion.
  • Measurements were also made to determine the triple-point temperature and heat of fusion of a solid sample near its triple point.
heat of fusion in Science
heat of fusion  
The amount of heat required to convert a solid at its melting point into a liquid without an increase in temperature. Liquids release the same amount of heat when they solidify. See also heat of vaporization.