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Chemical: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "chemical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 químico

🇮🇳 रासायनिक

🇩🇪 chemisch

🇮🇩 kimia

🇺🇦 хімічний

🇵🇱 chemiczny

🇯🇵 化学的 (かがくてき)

🇫🇷 chimique

🇪🇸 químico

🇹🇷 kimyasal

🇰🇷 화학의

🇸🇦 كيميائي

🇨🇿 chemický

🇸🇰 chemický

🇨🇳 化学的 (huàxué de)

🇸🇮 kemičen

🇮🇸 efnafræðilegur

🇰🇿 химиялық

🇬🇪 ქიმიური

🇦🇿 kimyəvi

🇲🇽 químico

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.