Leach Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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leach
[liːtʃ ]
Definition
chemical process
To leach is the process by which solutes are removed from a solid by the action of a liquid solvent. This process is commonly observed in the extraction of minerals from ore, where water or other solvents dissolve certain components, leaving behind undesirable materials. It can also refer to the process in agriculture where nutrients are washed away from soil by rainfall or irrigation. The effectiveness of leaching depends on various factors including the nature of the solvent and the solid material involved.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The gold was leached from the ore using cyanide.
- Nitrates can leach into groundwater from agricultural fields.
- Leaching is important in the preparation of herbal tinctures.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In soil science, leaching refers to the process where soluble substances are washed out from the soil, often by rain water.
- Leaching can remove essential nutrients from soil, affecting plant growth and leading to poorer crops.
- In environmental studies, leaching is crucial in understanding how contaminants move through soil and into groundwater.
Ecology
- Leaching plays a significant role in nutrient cycling, impacting ecosystem health and soil fertility.
- Certain plants have adapted to promote leaching to enhance nutrient uptake in nutrient-poor soils.
- Heavy metals can leach from landfills into surrounding environments, posing risks to wildlife and human health.
Cultural Impact
- In cooking, leaching can describe the process of extracting flavors, such as boiling vegetables to release nutrients into broth.
- In winemaking, leaching refers to extracting compounds from grape skins during fermentation to create flavor profiles.
Origin of 'leach'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'leach' comes from Old English 'leccan,' meaning to moisten or soak.
- In Middle English, it evolved to 'leche,' referring to the act of draining or filtering.
- The term is related to the word 'leak,' both implying something passing through or escaping.
The term 'leach' originated from the Old English word 'leac', meaning 'to draw out' or 'to wash'. It appears in Middle English as 'lechen', reflecting its connection to the act of cleansing or drawing out substances. The application of 'leach' has evolved over time to encompass various expressions in science and agriculture, particularly in relation to the use of liquids to separate solutes from solids. The modern usage in the context of chemical engineering and environmental science has solidified its importance in understanding both natural processes and industrial applications.