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Chemical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chemical

[ˈkɛmɪkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

science

A substance produced by or used in a chemical process.

Synonyms

compound, element, substance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chemical

This term is broad and can refer to any compound or substance that results from a reaction involving atomic or molecular changes. It's often used in contexts related to chemistry, industry, or material science.

  • The plant releases several harmful chemicals into the air
  • The scientist is studying the chemical properties of the new substance
substance

This term is general and can refer to any material with a definite chemical composition. It's suitable for everyday use as well as scientific contexts.

  • Please avoid contact with this toxic substance
  • The researchers discovered a new substance with unique properties
compound

Used to describe a substance formed when two or more chemical elements are chemically bonded together. It is often used in a scientific or technical context.

  • Water is a compound made from hydrogen and oxygen
  • The lab is synthesizing new organic compounds for cancer research
element

Refers to a substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. It's mostly used in basic scientific discussions, particularly in chemistry.

  • Gold is a precious element
  • The periodic table organizes all known elements

Examples of usage

  • The scientist is studying the properties of a new chemical compound.
  • Chemicals are often used in manufacturing processes.
Context #2 | Adjective

chemistry

Relating to chemistry or the interactions of substances as studied in chemistry.

Examples of usage

  • He has a strong background in chemical engineering.
  • The chemical properties of the elements vary.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur are the main elements that make up most biological molecules.
  • The periodic table of elements organizes chemicals based on their atomic number and properties, illustrating their relationships.
  • Chemicals can undergo reactions to form new compounds, demonstrating the concept of conservation of mass in reactions.

Pop Culture

  • The iconic 'Breaking Bad' television series centers around a chemistry teacher who turns to cooking methamphetamine.
  • Chemical elements have inspired music and art, with artists using themes related to chemicals, such as 'Weird Al' Yankovic’s song 'The Elements'.
  • Movies like 'The Imitation Game' highlight the importance of chemistry in wartime innovations and technological advancements.

Industrial Applications

  • Chemicals play a crucial role in creating everyday products, from cleaning supplies to pharmaceuticals.
  • The chemical industry is one of the largest industries globally, contributing significantly to the economy through product manufacturing.
  • Green chemistry focuses on designing chemical processes that minimize environmental impact and reduce hazardous waste.

Environmental Impact

  • Chemical pollutants from industries can harm ecosystems and human health, highlighting the importance of regulations.
  • Pesticides and fertilizers, which are chemicals, can enhance agriculture but also raise concerns about water quality and biodiversity.
  • Research into sustainable chemicals aims to develop eco-friendly substances that can replace harmful ones in various processes.

Origin of 'chemical'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chemical' originates from the Greek word 'khemia', which means the art of transmuting metals.
  • It evolved through the Arabic 'al-kīmiyā', which was the practice of alchemy, an early form of chemistry.
  • In the 17th century, the term began to shift towards its modern scientific meaning, focusing on substances and their reactions.

The word 'chemical' originated from the late 16th century, from the French chimique or medieval Latin chimicus, based on the Arabic word kīmiyā', from the Greek word khēmeia. The term originally referred to alchemy, the medieval forerunner of chemistry, and later evolved to its current meaning.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,284, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.