What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
transmittance
Example
The transmittance of this glass is very high, allowing for maximum light to pass through. [transmittance: noun]
Example
The spectrophotometer measures the transmittance of light through a sample. [transmittance: noun]
permeability
Example
The permeability of this membrane allows for the diffusion of gases across it. [permeability: noun]
Example
The soil's permeability affects its ability to absorb water. [permeability: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Permeability is more commonly used than transmittance in everyday language, especially in fields such as geology and engineering. Transmittance is more specialized and is primarily used in optics and spectroscopy.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between transmittance and permeability?
Both transmittance and permeability are technical terms used in scientific contexts and are therefore considered formal language.
