Efflux: meaning, definitions and examples

Efflux is often used interchangeably with efflux in scientific contexts, referring to the flow out of a particular substance or entity.

• Studying the efflux of certain chemicals from the bioreactor was crucial for optimizing the production process.
• The team monitored the efflux of ions to understand cellular functions.

Outflow is generally used in financial or geographical contexts. It refers to the movement of money out of an account or the flow of water and other substances from a location.

• The company experienced a significant outflow of funds due to unexpected expenses.
• The outflow of water from the dam was closely monitored to prevent flooding.

Discharge is commonly used in both technical and everyday contexts. It refers to the release or expulsion of a substance and can also mean the release of an obligation or responsibility. It sometimes has medical or military connotations.

• The factory was fined for the illegal discharge of waste into the river.
• After the surgery, there was minimal discharge from the wound.

Emission is usually used when referring to the release of gases, light, heat, or radiation. It's commonly found in discussions about the environment and technology.

• The new regulations aim to reduce the emission of harmful gases from factories.
• The light emission from the LED was measured to ensure compliance with standards.

Used primarily in scientific or technical contexts to describe the process of a substance flowing out of something.

• The efflux of ions from the cell was monitored closely over time.
• An efflux of pollutants into the river was detected by environmental scientists.

Commonly used in both everyday language and technical contexts to describe the release of substances, energy, or people from containment. Can also refer to the release of someone from a hospital or military service.

• The factory was fined for the illegal discharge of chemicals into the lake.
• After a week in the hospital, she was finally discharged and allowed to go home.

Refers specifically to the process by which substances are produced and discharged from cells or glands in biological contexts.

• The secretion of insulin in the pancreas is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels.
• Sweat is a secretion that helps regulate body temperature.

Used primarily to refer to the release of gases or radiation, often in environmental or scientific discussions.

• The car manufacturers are working to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from their vehicles.
• Satellite data showed an increase in the emission of greenhouse gases from the region.