Self-Absorption

Self-absorption occurs when a material or substance absorbs light, heat, or other forms of energy emitted by itself, rather than allowing it to escape. This means the substance traps its own energy, preventing it from passing through or radiating outward effectively. For example, in astrophysics, a star or galaxy that is self-absorptive absorbs much of its own emitted light, making it appear dimmer or obscured from view. In other contexts, it can describe a process where internal absorption limits the transmission of energy, affecting the material’s visibility or energy transfer properties.