FORMALIN Meaning and
Definition
-
Formalin is a colorless, strong-smelling solution that consists mainly of formaldehyde dissolved in water. It is commonly used as a preservative and disinfectant in various industries, including healthcare, veterinary, and biology. The term "formalin" is usually used interchangeably with "formaldehyde solution."
Formalin is composed of about 37% to 40% formaldehyde gas dissolved in water, often with the addition of methanol, which helps to stabilize the formaldehyde. This solution acts as a powerful antimicrobial agent, preventing the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. It is commonly used to preserve biological specimens for educational and research purposes in laboratories and museums.
Due to its strong antimicrobial properties, formalin is also employed in medical settings to sterilize surgical instruments and disinfect clinical environments. In addition, it is used to fix tissues and organs for pathological examination, enabling the preservation of cellular structures and preventing decomposition. This makes formalin an essential component of histology and pathology laboratories.
While formalin can be highly effective, it is a toxic substance and must be handled with care. Inhalation or direct contact with formalin can cause irritation to the respiratory system, skin, and eyes. Prolonged exposure or ingestion may lead to more severe health effects. Therefore, it is crucial to follow safety protocols and guidelines when working with formalin to prevent any adverse health consequences.
-
Liquor formaldehydi a 37 per cent. solution of formaldehyde.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FORMALIN
Etymology of FORMALIN
The word "formalin" is derived from the chemical compound formaldehyde. The term "formaldehyde" itself is a combination of two words: "formic" and "aldehyde".
"Formic" is derived from the Latin word "formica", meaning "ant", as the chemical was first isolated from ants in the early 19th century. The ants were discovered to release a substance with a pungent odor that was later identified as formaldehyde. The term "aldehyde" comes from the Latin word "alcohol dehydrogenatum", meaning "alcohol deprived of hydrogen".
When formaldehyde is dissolved in water to form a solution, it is commonly referred to as "formalin". The term "formalin" is a blend of "formaldehyde" and "alcohol", indicating the presence of formaldehyde in an aqueous solution.
Similar spelling words for FORMALIN
- formless,
- formalism,
- formalities,
- formalized,
- formulaize,
- formalness,
- formalwear,
- formalistic,
- formalise,
- formalised,
- formalize,
- formal,
- formol,
- formulaic,
- formula,
- formality,
- formally.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
