DELIQUESCENCE Meaning and
Definition
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Deliquescence refers to the phenomenon where a solid substance absorbs moisture from the surrounding air until it becomes a solution. It is the process of hygroscopic substances absorbing water vapor from the atmosphere, ultimately dissolving in the absorbed water. This transformation occurs when the humidity levels are high, typically above 50% relative humidity.
Deliquescence is commonly observed in certain salts and minerals, such as calcium chloride and potassium hydroxide, which are highly hygroscopic. These materials have a strong affinity for water molecules, attracting them to their surface and forming a concentrated solution. As the absorption continues, the solid gradually liquefies and forms a droplet or a solution.
The deliquescence process is reversible. When the relative humidity decreases, the deliquescent substance will slowly release the absorbed water back into the atmosphere until it becomes a dry solid again. This ability to absorb and release moisture makes deliquescent substances valuable in various applications, such as humidity control, chemical synthesis, and industrial processes.
In summary, deliquescence is the phenomenon where a solid absorbs moisture from the air, causing it to dissolve and form a concentrated solution. It is a reversible process that depends on the humidity levels, with highly hygroscopic substances exhibiting this behavior.
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The process of deliquescing.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Melting by absorbing moisture from the air.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DELIQUESCENCE
- seliquescence
- xeliquescence
- celiquescence
- feliquescence
- reliquescence
- eeliquescence
- dwliquescence
- dsliquescence
- ddliquescence
- drliquescence
- d4liquescence
- d3liquescence
- dekiquescence
- depiquescence
- deoiquescence
- deluquescence
- deljquescence
- delkquescence
- deloquescence
Etymology of DELIQUESCENCE
The word "deliquescence" is derived from the Middle French word "deliquescence" and the Latin word "deliquescere". In Latin, "deliquescere" is a compound of "de" (meaning "down") and "liquescere" (meaning "to become liquid"). It originally referred to the process by which a solid substance absorbs moisture and dissolves into a liquid form. The term was later borrowed into English in the 17th century to describe the same process of dissolution or the action of becoming liquid.
Similar spelling words for DELIQUESCENCE
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