Dimensional Consistency in Korean Terminology for Force, Energy, and Power in Climate, Energy, and Environmental Fields: A Review

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Abstract
In modern climate, energy, and environmental fields, optimizing energy efficiency and utilizing renewable energy resources have become central challenges. However, the current Korean scientific and technological terminology system indiscriminately applies the suffix ‘ryeok (力)’ to energy (E) and power (P) — concepts with strictly distinct physical dimensions — thereby undermining dimensional transparency at the morpheme level and causing cognitive confusion in educational and practical settings. This review analyzes, from a comparative perspective, the technological terminology systems of Korea, China, and Japan, which belong to the major Sino-character cultural sphere of Northeast Asia, in order to diagnose the structural limitations of the ryeok (力)-based nomenclature system. It further proposes a complementary terminology system centered on neung (能, energy) for energy- and energy-source-related terms and on ilryul (率, rate) for energy-transfer-rate-related terms. Furthermore, to clarify the physical origin of energy, this review examines “haek-eneoji” (nuclear energy) and “haekneung” as complementary terms for “wonjaryeok” (nuclear power), and introduces “jeongi-ilryul” and its abbreviated form “jeonilryul” as complementary terms for “jeonryeok” (electric power), thereby enhancing conceptual consistency between the mechanical and electrical domains. Rather than advocating for the immediate abolition of established standards, this review explores the possibility of using dimensionally transparent alternative names in parallel, aiming to secure educational clarity suitable for the era of energy transition and enhance the efficiency of scientific communication.
Funding Information
  • Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment
  • Central Green Environment Center (2026-019-01)
  • Central Green Environment Center (26-04-10-16-12)

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