Aqueous: meaning, definitions and examples
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aqueous
[ ˈeɪ.kwi.əs ]
scientific term
Aqueous refers to a solution in which water is the solvent. It is commonly used in chemistry to denote processes or substances that involve water as a primary ingredient. The term is often used to describe reactions, solutions, or conditions that occur in water.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The aqueous solution was heated to observe the reaction.
- An aqueous extract was prepared from the plants.
- In an aqueous environment, certain compounds dissolve better.
Etymology
The word 'aqueous' originates from the Latin word 'aqua,' meaning water. The use of 'aqueous' in English was first recorded in the late 16th century, primarily in scientific contexts. As the sciences, particularly chemistry, developed, the term became essential for distinguishing water-based solutions from other types of solutions. The prefix 'aqua-' is frequently used in various terms related to water, such as 'aquarium,' 'aquatic,' and 'aquifer.' The evolution of the word reflects the growing importance of water in understanding and conducting chemical reactions, as well as its fundamental role in numerous biological and environmental processes.