Neutrophilic is a word used in microbiology and refers to bacteria that preferentially grow in neutral pH environments. The word is pronounced /ˌn(j)uːtrə(ʊ)ˈfɪlɪk/ and is spelled with the prefix "neutro-" meaning neutral and the suffix "-philic" meaning attracted to or fond of. The "ph" in "philoc" is pronounced /f/ which is why the word is spelled with an "f" instead of a "ph". This word is important in immunology research as neutrophils are a type of white blood cell critical to the body's immune response.
Neutrophilic is an adjective that describes or refers to the characteristic of a substance, organism, or environment that has a neutral or relatively neutral pH level. The term is commonly used in the fields of chemistry, biology, and environmental science.
In the context of chemistry, neutrophilic substances or solutions have a pH level close to 7 on the pH scale, which indicates a neutral pH. A neutral pH means that the substance or solution is neither acidic nor alkaline, having an equal balance of hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-).
Biologically, neutrophilic organisms are those that can exist and thrive in environments with a neutral pH level. For example, neutrophilic bacteria are microorganisms that can grow and reproduce in environments with a pH level around 7, indicating their ability to tolerate and thrive in conditions that lack extreme acidity or alkalinity.
In environmental science, neutrophilic environments refer to habitats, ecosystems, or soil conditions with a neutral pH level. These environments provide favorable conditions for living organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, as they do not face the challenges posed by excessively acidic or alkaline conditions.
In summary, neutrophilic implies neutrality or a state of close-to-neutral pH, indicating a substance, organism, or environment that is neither acidic nor alkaline.
The word "neutrophilic" comes from combining two elements: "neutro-" and "-philic".
The prefix "neutro-" derives from the Greek word "neutros", meaning neither one nor the other. It has the sense of being neutral or having no particular charge. In the context of "neutrophilic", it refers to cells that are neither acid-loving (acidophilic) nor base-loving (basophilic).
The suffix "-philic" is derived from the Greek word "philos", which means loving or attracted to. It is often used to indicate a strong affinity or liking towards something. In the case of "neutrophilic", it indicates an attraction or affinity for neutral environments.
Therefore, when combined, the word "neutrophilic" conveys the idea of cells that show an affinity or attraction towards neutral environments.