What Does PDR Stand For?
PDR stands for Photodissociation Region
PDR, or Photodissociation Region, refers to a region in space where ultraviolet light from nearby stars interacts with molecular gas, leading to the dissociation of molecules, primarily hydrogen. These regions are typically found at the edges of H II regions and play a crucial role in the chemistry and dynamics of interstellar matter. PDRs are characterized by gradients in temperature, density, and radiation, influencing star formation processes and the overall evolution of galaxies. Understanding PDRs is essential for elucidating the life cycle of materials in the universe.
Added on 14th April 2008 | Last edited on 16th June 2025 | Edit Acronym