Deliquation (dih-lih-kwey-shuhn) is a phenomenon referring to the act of becoming liquid or dissolving. Its spelling is derived from the Latin word "deliquescere" which means to melt or liquefy. The first syllable has the short "ih" sound, followed by the long "ih" sound in the second syllable, and a stressed "ey" sound in the third syllable. As a technical term, it is mainly used in the field of chemistry to describe the behavior of certain substances when exposed to air or moisture.
Deliquation, also known as deliquescence, refers to the process by which a solid substance absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment until it becomes a liquid. This term is commonly used in chemistry and physics to describe the unique property of certain hygroscopic (water-absorbing) compounds. Deliquation occurs as a result of the high affinity that these substances have for water molecules.
When a hygroscopic substance is exposed to humid air, it attracts the moisture present in the atmosphere. As the substance absorbs water, it gradually dissolves and forms a liquid solution. This transition from a solid to a liquid state is referred to as deliquation. This phenomenon is most commonly observed in substances such as salts, acids, and certain metal oxides.
Deliquation is often understood as a function of both temperature and humidity. Higher temperatures and increased humidity accelerate the deliquescence process, causing substances to dissolve more rapidly. Conversely, lower temperatures and lower humidity levels impede the deliquation process.
The ability of a substance to deliquesce is often utilized in industries and laboratories where precise humidity control is necessary. By understanding the deliquation properties of different substances, scientists and engineers can manipulate and control the moisture content of various materials for specific applications.
Overall, deliquation is a fundamental concept in chemistry that describes the transformation of a solid compound into a liquid through the absorption of water from the surrounding environment.
The act or state of melting.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "deliquation" is derived from the Latin verb "deliquare", which means "to melt away" or "to become liquid". The term was formed by adding the suffix "-tion" to the Latin verb stem, indicating the action or process of melting or dissolving.