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Deliquescing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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deliquescing

[ˌdɛlɪˈkwɛsɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

chemical reaction

Deliquescing is a term used in chemistry to describe the process by which a substance absorbs moisture from the air until it dissolves in the absorbed water and forms a solution. Specific salts, like calcium chloride or magnesium chloride, can deliquesce, leading to the formation of liquid brine under humid conditions. This property is particularly important in various applications, such as de-icing roads or creating humidity control systems. Understanding the deliquescence of materials is crucial in fields ranging from material science to environmental chemistry.

Synonyms

absorb moisture, dissolve, melt.

Examples of usage

  • The salt began deliquescing when exposed to the humid air.
  • Deliquescing substances can often be found in chemical laboratories.
  • In high humidity, sodium hydroxide can become deliquescent, forming a solution.
  • Some hygroscopic compounds deliquesce after absorbing sufficient moisture.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Certain salts, like calcium chloride, are commonly known for deliquescing and are used as desiccants to remove moisture.
  • The process depends on humidity levels; in damp environments, many solids can deliquesce more easily.
  • Deliquescing materials can be a problem in industries where moisture affects product quality.

Cultural Significance

  • In art, the concept has inspired discussions about the transient nature of life and change.
  • Some literary works use melting imagery to symbolize feelings of vulnerability or emotional transformation.
  • The process can evoke thoughts about environmental changes, like ice melting due to climate change.

Psychology

  • Metaphorically, deliquescing can relate to how emotions may dissolve under stress or pressure.
  • It symbolizes fragility in human experiences, similar to how solid substances lose their form.
  • Understanding deliquescing can be a helpful analogy for people facing changes in their lives or identities.

Everyday Observations

  • During rainy weather, some powders can clump together, illustrating the deliquescing process.
  • When you leave an open bag of sugar out, it may clump or become liquid in high humidity, showcasing this phenomenon.
  • Many gardeners use deliquescing salts to manage humidity in soil for optimal plant growth.

Origin of 'deliquescing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'deliquescere,' meaning 'to become liquid.'
  • It originally referred to substances that gradually dissolve in moisture rather than a sudden change.
  • The term has been part of the scientific vocabulary since the late 19th century.

The term 'deliquescing' comes from the Latin word 'deliquescere', which means 'to dissolve' or 'to melt away'. This Latin root can be further analyzed as it combines 'de-' (a prefix meaning 'down' or 'from') and 'liquescere' (to become fluid). The use of the term in chemistry began in the 19th century as scientists started to understand the behavior of certain compounds in the presence of moisture. This phenomenon is significant in the study of hygroscopic materials and has applications across several fields, including meteorology, cooking, and material storage. Deliquescence highlights the importance of environmental conditions on chemical stability and reactivity, opening pathways for innovations in product formulations and industrial processes.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,458, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.