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Leaching: meaning, definitions and examples

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leaching

 

[ ˈliːtʃɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

environmental process

Leaching is the process by which soluble constituents are washed out from materials such as soil, ash, or waste. This often occurs when water percolates through these materials, dissolving and carrying away various substances. Leaching is significant in agriculture as it affects nutrient availability in soil. Additionally, it can have environmental implications, particularly in the context of soil and water contamination.

Synonyms

dissolution, percolation, seepage

Examples of usage

  • Leaching of nutrients can lead to poor crop yields.
  • The leaching of chemicals from industrial waste can contaminate groundwater.
  • Farmers must manage leaching to maintain soil health.
  • Heavy rains can increase the leaching of essential minerals.

Translations

Translations of the word "leaching" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lixiviação

🇮🇳 लीचिंग

🇩🇪 Auslaugen

🇮🇩 pelindihan

🇺🇦 вилуговування

🇵🇱 wymywanie

🇯🇵 浸出

🇫🇷 lixiviation

🇪🇸 lixiviación

🇹🇷 yıkama

🇰🇷 용출

🇸🇦 التسرب

🇨🇿 vyluhování

🇸🇰 vyluhovanie

🇨🇳 浸出

🇸🇮 lixivijacija

🇮🇸 lúga

🇰🇿 жуу

🇬🇪 ლიზინგი

🇦🇿 süzmə

🇲🇽 lixiviación

Etymology

The term 'leaching' originates from the Old English word 'leccan', meaning 'to moisten' or 'to soak'. It evolved during the late Middle Ages when agricultural practices began to include the understanding of soil and nutrient movements. As chemistry and environmental science developed, the term took on a more technical meaning associated with the process of extraction through the medium of liquid. By the 19th century, leaching became a key concept in both soil science and hydrology, highlighting the relationship between water, soil, and chemical constituents. Today, it encompasses a broader range of applications beyond agriculture, including waste management and environmental remediation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,064, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.