METHYLCELLULOSE Meaning and
Definition
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Methylcellulose is a chemical compound that belongs to the family of cellulose derivatives. It is formed by the reaction of cellulose with methylchloride and sodium hydroxide under controlled conditions. Methylcellulose is typically odorless and tasteless, and it appears as a white or off-white powder. It is soluble in cold water, forming a clear, viscous solution.
In terms of its applications, methylcellulose has various uses in different industries. One of its most common applications is in the field of pharmaceuticals. It is used as an inactive ingredient or excipient in medications, serving as a thickening agent or emulsifier. Due to its high water-holding capacity, methylcellulose is widely used in ophthalmic preparations, such as eye drops and artificial tears, to improve the retention time and lubricating properties.
Moreover, methylcellulose is utilized in the food industry as a food additive. It acts as a stabilizer, thickener, and emulsifier, enhancing the texture and mouthfeel of different food products. It is commonly used in the production of processed foods, ice creams, sauces, and bakery items.
Additionally, methylcellulose finds applications in the field of chemistry as a binding and sizing agent. It is used in the production of paints, adhesives, and ceramics, contributing to their stability and consistency.
Overall, methylcellulose is a versatile compound with numerous applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and chemical industries.
Common Misspellings for METHYLCELLULOSE
- nethylcellulose
- kethylcellulose
- jethylcellulose
- mwthylcellulose
- msthylcellulose
- mdthylcellulose
- mrthylcellulose
- m4thylcellulose
- m3thylcellulose
- merhylcellulose
- mefhylcellulose
- meghylcellulose
- meyhylcellulose
- me6hylcellulose
- me5hylcellulose
- metgylcellulose
- metbylcellulose
- metnylcellulose
- metjylcellulose
- metuylcellulose
Etymology of METHYLCELLULOSE
The word "Methylcellulose" is derived from the combination of "methyl" and "cellulose".
"Cellulose" is a polysaccharide and the main component of plant cell walls. It is derived from the Latin word "cellula", meaning "small room" or "cell".
"Methyl" refers to the addition of a methyl group (-CH3) to a molecule, in this case, cellulose. The term "methyl" itself is derived from the German word "methyl" and the Greek word "methy", both meaning "wine" or "spirit".
Hence, "Methylcellulose" indicates the chemical modification of cellulose by the addition of methyl groups (-CH3) to its structure.
