DECALCIFICATION Meaning and
Definition
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Decalcification refers to the process of removing calcium deposits or mineralized deposits from different materials or structures. This term is commonly used in various fields, including medicine, dentistry, geology, and industrial applications.
In the medical and dental context, decalcification typically refers to the removal of calcium salts, particularly from bone or teeth. This process is often necessary for studying tissues or for preparing histological slides for microscopic examination. Decalcification in this sense involves treating the specimen with a decalcifying agent such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or hydrochloric acid to dissolve the calcium deposits, thus allowing clearer visualization of cells and tissues.
In geology, decalcification refers to the natural weathering or dissolution of calcium carbonate (such as limestone or coral reefs) due to exposure to acidic water or other chemical processes. This can result in the formation of various landforms, such as caves or sinkholes.
In industrial applications, decalcification may refer to the removal of calcium deposits from water-using equipment or pipelines. The accumulation of calcium deposits, known as scale, can impair the efficiency of machinery or clog pipes, leading to reduced performance or damage. Decalcification methods in this context usually involve the use of chemicals or descaling agents to dissolve the calcium deposits and restore the functionality of the equipment.
Overall, decalcification refers to the process of removing calcium deposits or mineralized materials from different substances or structures, allowing for clearer examination, remediation, or improvement of their functionality.
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Removal of lime salts or calcareous matter.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DECALCIFICATION
- secalcification
- xecalcification
- cecalcification
- fecalcification
- recalcification
- eecalcification
- dwcalcification
- dscalcification
- ddcalcification
- drcalcification
- d4calcification
- d3calcification
- dexalcification
- devalcification
- defalcification
- dedalcification
- deczlcification
- decslcification
- decwlcification
- decalcifiaction
- decalcifycation
- Demalification
Etymology of DECALCIFICATION
The word "decalcification" is derived from the combination of two roots: "de-" and "calcification".
1. The prefix "de-", derived from Latin, means "opposite" or "reverse". It is used to indicate removal, reversal, or negation. In this context, "de-" implies the removal or reversal of calcification.
2. The root "calcification" comes from the Latin word "calx" meaning "lime" or "chalk", along with the suffix "-ficare" meaning "to make". The term "calcification" refers to the process of depositing calcium salts or minerals in tissues or organs, which can lead to hardening or abnormal accumulation.
Thus, "decalcification" combines these elements to refer to the process of removing or reversing the accumulation of calcium salts or minerals in tissues or organs.
Similar spelling word for DECALCIFICATION
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