Permeation: meaning, definitions and examples

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permeation

[ˌpɜːrmiˈeɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

chemical engineering

The process of a substance moving through a permeable membrane or material.

Synonyms

diffusion, infiltration, penetration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
permeation	Permeation is often used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the process by which substances filter through materials or membranes, typically in a uniform and steady manner. The permeation of water through the soil is essential for plant growth Scientists are studying the permeation of gases through different types of barriers
penetration	Penetration is typically used to describe the act or process of piercing or entering a surface or space forcibly or with a distinct impact. It is often used in medical, technological, and military contexts. The penetration of the needle into the skin was quick and almost painless Cybersecurity experts are working to prevent unauthorized penetration of the system
infiltration	Infiltration is often used in environmental science, engineering, and military contexts to describe the process of entering or permeating a substance, space, or group, sometimes carrying a connotation of stealth or subversion. The infiltration of rainwater into the groundwater is crucial for maintaining the water table The spies planned their infiltration carefully to avoid detection
diffusion	Diffusion is commonly used to describe the natural spreading of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration, frequently used in chemistry, physics, and biology. The diffusion of oxygen into the bloodstream occurs in the lungs Over time, the fragrance of the flowers diffused throughout the entire room

Examples of usage

The permeation of water through the soil is essential for plant growth.
The permeation of gases through the rubber membrane is being studied in the lab.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

The act of spreading or diffusing through something.

Synonyms

diffusion, infiltration, penetration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
permeation	Used when something spreads or passes through a material, typically in a uniform or extensive manner. Commonly used in scientific and technical contexts. The permeation of moisture through the wall can cause damage The permeation rate of the chemical was monitored carefully
penetration	Describes the process of physically entering or piercing through something, sometimes with force. Can be used in various contexts including technical, military, and market contexts. The penetration of the drill through the metal was quick The company's market penetration increased rapidly over the year
infiltration	Often used when an unwanted or harmful substance enters a place or substance, usually with a connotation of sneaking in or gradually invading. Commonly used in environmental science and security contexts. The infiltration of bacteria into the water supply is a health risk The spy's infiltration of the organization went undetected for years
diffusion	Refers to the process of a substance spreading out to evenly fill its container or environment. Frequently used in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry and biology. The diffusion of the perfume filled the entire room Oxygen diffusion through cell membranes is crucial for respiration

Examples of usage

The permeation of new ideas into society can lead to positive change.
The permeation of technology into everyday life has transformed how we live.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'permeare,' meaning 'to pass through' – showing its roots in movement and transition.
The prefix 'per-' suggests 'through' or 'completely,' emphasizing total passage.
First recorded use in English was in the late 17th century, linking it to early scientific exploration.

Science

In chemistry, permeation is key for understanding how gases interact with solid materials, like how oxygen passes through a membrane.
Permeation is essential in biology, such as nutrients moving through cell membranes, which sustains life.
The rate of permeation can be affected by temperature, pressure, and the properties of both substances involved.

Environmental Studies

Soil permeation is crucial for water drainage and the health of ecosystems, impacting agriculture and natural habitats.
Pollutants can permeate groundwater, affecting drinking water supplies and necessitating environmental monitoring.
Understanding permeation helps in designing effective barriers against harmful substances, like in landfills.

Technology

Permeation is a critical concept in filtration technologies, where the goal is to allow certain substances to pass while blocking others.
In modern material science, designers create membranes with specific permeation qualities for use in water purification systems.
Permeation principles are applied in the development of innovative materials such as breathable fabrics used in sports gear.

Literature

Themes of permeation often appear in literature as metaphors for influence and change, representing how ideas can spread through societies.
Writers may describe emotions or ideas that 'permeate' a character’s life, illustrating deep influence from their environment.
The concept of permeation can symbolize the blending of cultures in literary works, highlighting globalization's impact.

Translations

Translations of the word "permeation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 permeação

🇮🇳 प्रवेश

🇩🇪 Durchdringung

🇮🇩 permeasi

🇺🇦 проникнення

🇵🇱 przenikanie

🇯🇵 浸透

🇫🇷 perméation

🇪🇸 permeación

🇹🇷 nüfuz

🇰🇷 침투

🇸🇦 اختراق

🇨🇿 průnik

🇸🇰 prienik

🇨🇳 渗透

🇸🇮 preboj

🇮🇸 gegndræpi

🇰🇿 өту

🇬🇪 გადაწვდომა

🇦🇿 nüfuz

🇲🇽 permeación

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,831, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21828 phloem
21829 barrack
21830 abhorred
21831 permeation
21832 perineum
21833 optimality
21834 archery
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