inertimasse

Inertimasse is a fictional substance described in the science fiction novel "A Fire Upon the Deep" by Vernor Vinge. It is depicted as a material that possesses a unique property: it can absorb and store kinetic energy. This absorption is a natural, inherent characteristic of the substance. When subjected to motion or impact, inertimasse does not react with elastic rebound or dissipation of energy in the typical ways other materials do. Instead, it effectively becomes "heavier" or more resistant to further change in its state of motion as it accumulates kinetic energy.

The primary application of inertimasse in the novel is for creating incredibly durable and powerful weaponry and defensive structures. Objects constructed from inertimasse can withstand immense forces and impacts. For example, ships built with inertimasse hulls are virtually impervious to conventional damage. Weapons incorporating inertimasse can deliver devastating blows by releasing the stored kinetic energy in a controlled manner. The concept allows for a form of inertia manipulation, where the material's interaction with motion is amplified and controllable. The exact scientific principles behind inertimasse are not fully explained, as it operates within the fantastical framework of the novel's universe.