Absorbency Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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absorbency
[əbˈzɔːr.bən.si ]
Definition
material property
Absorbency refers to the ability of a material to take in and hold liquids or moisture. It describes how much liquid a substance can absorb before becoming saturated. High absorbency materials are often used in applications such as textiles, cleaning products, and packaging.
Synonyms
absorption, soakage, sorption.
Examples of usage
- The absorbency of the cloth makes it ideal for cleaning spills.
- Paper towels are designed for high absorbency.
- The absorbency of this sponge allows it to soak up large amounts of water.
- When choosing a diaper, parents look for high absorbency.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Absorbency is an important property in materials like sponges, paper towels, and even certain types of soil.
- In chemistry, absorbency describes how substances like gases can be taken up by liquids.
Household Items
- The absorbency of towels varies, with materials like cotton being highly effective, while synthetic fibers may absorb less.
- Diapers and feminine hygiene products are designed specifically for high absorbency to keep the wearer comfortable.
Environmental Impact
- Soil's absorbency affects water retention, which is crucial for plant growth and preventing erosion.
- Materials with good absorbency are often preferred for packaging biodegradable products to enhance sustainability.
Technology
- Innovative products are being developed, like super-absorbent polymers, which have applications in medical and industrial fields.
- 3D printing technology is being used to create materials with tailored absorbency for specific applications.
Origin of 'absorbency'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'absorb' comes from Latin 'absorbere', which means 'to swallow up'.
- It was first used in English in the late 1400s, linking it to physical and metaphorical meanings of taking in.
The term 'absorbency' comes from the Latin word 'absorbere', which means 'to suck in'. The prefix 'ab-' means 'away from' and the root 'sorb' relates to 'sucking'. The transition to the usage of 'absorbency' began in the 19th century when the study of materials and their properties became a significant part of science and engineering. Materials scientists and engineers started to explore the characteristics of various substances, leading to the formalization of terms like 'absorbency' to describe how much liquid can be held by substances. Its usage has grown in various fields including textiles, medicine, and even environmental science, highlighting its importance in both industrial and everyday applications.