How Do You Spell SESQUIBASIC?

Pronunciation: [sˌɛskwɪbˈe͡ɪsɪk] (IPA)

Sesquibasic is an unusual word that refers to a chemical compound that contains one and a half equivalents of a base per molecule. Its spelling can be confusing, but can be broken down phonetically as "ses-kwuh-bey-sik." The "ses" sound is pronounced "sehss", the "kwuh" sound is pronounced "kwuh", the "bey" sound is pronounced "bay", and the "sik" sound is pronounced "sik". Understanding the phonetic transcription of this word can make its spelling much easier to remember.

SESQUIBASIC Meaning and Definition

1. Sesquibasic is an adjective that is commonly used in chemistry to describe a substance with a formula or composition consisting of both a monobasic and a dibasic component. The term "sesqui" is derived from the Latin word meaning "one and a half," indicating that the substance contains one and a half times the basic amount of a particular component.

   In the context of acid and base chemistry, sesquibasic compounds typically possess both a monobasic acid or base group and a dibasic acid or base group. This means that these substances can react with both single and double equivalents of a reactant. For example, a sesquibasic acid can react with one or two equivalents of a base, leading to either the formation of a mono- or dibasic salt.

   Sesquibasic compounds are often characterized by their ability to donate or accept multiple protons or hydroxide ions in chemical reactions. This property makes them versatile in various chemical processes and reactions. Due to their unique composition, sesquibasic compounds can exhibit different acidity or alkalinity levels depending on the reaction conditions and the number of equivalents of reagents involved.

   In summary, sesquibasic refers to a substance that contains both a monobasic and a dibasic component, often found in acid-base chemistry. These compounds possess the ability to react with both single and double equivalents of a reactant, making them versatile in chemical reactions.

2. Noting a salt with three equivalents of the acid for two of the base.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for SESQUIBASIC

• sesquinasic
• sesquihasic
• sesquigasic
• sesquiasic

Etymology of SESQUIBASIC

The word "sesquibasic" is derived from Latin roots. "Sesqui" means "one and a half" or "one half more" in Latin, whereas "basic" refers to a substance that is alkaline or has a pH greater than 7. So, in the context of chemistry, "sesquibasic" indicates a substance that is slightly more basic than a "basic" substance, or contains a ratio of elements greater than one to one.