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Reactant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reactant

[rɪˈæktənt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemistry

A substance that takes part in and undergoes change during a reaction.

Synonyms

compound, reagent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reactant

Useful in chemistry to describe substances that undergo change during a chemical reaction.

  • In the reaction, the reactants are hydrogen and oxygen, producing water.
  • Both reactants were mixed in the test tube.
reagent

Applied in laboratory settings to refer to a substance used to cause a chemical reaction, often in testing or analysis.

  • The reagent changed color, indicating the presence of the substance.
  • We added the reagent to the sample to observe the reaction.
compound

Used broadly in chemistry to describe a substance made from two or more elements chemically bonded together.

  • Water is a compound of hydrogen and oxygen.
  • Sodium chloride, salt, is an example of a chemical compound.

Examples of usage

  • The reactants are the substances that are present before the chemical reaction takes place.
  • In a chemical equation, the reactants are written on the left side.
  • The reactant molecules collide with each other to form new products.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Chemistry

  • In a chemical equation, reactants are written on the left side, showing what is used to create products on the right.
  • Reactants can be elements, compounds, or mixtures that transform during a reaction, often producing heat, light, or gas.
  • The law of conservation of mass states that the mass of reactants must equal the mass of products in a closed system, meaning nothing is lost.

Education

  • High school chemistry labs often study reactants through experiments, mixing substances to see exciting changes.
  • Interactive simulations allow students to visualize how different reactants will behave when combined under various conditions.
  • Understanding reactants is crucial for future studies in areas such as biochemistry, pharmacology, and environmental science.

Pop Culture

  • In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, 'reactants' can be related to the creation of powerful substances like the Hulk's gamma radiation.
  • Science-themed movies often portray dramatic reactions, emphasizing the role of reactants in explosive or colorful outcomes.
  • Popular science channels on YouTube demonstrate chemical reactions using everyday reactants to engage a wider audience with fun visuals.

Origin of 'reactant'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'reactio', meaning 'to act back', showcasing how these substances respond during reactions.
  • It was first used in scientific contexts in the late 19th century as chemistry began developing as a formal science.
  • The prefix 're-' indicates that these substances react or respond, while 'actant' connects with acts in a process.

The word 'reactant' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the Latin word 'react-' meaning 'act again'. It was first used in the context of chemistry to describe substances involved in chemical reactions. Over time, 'reactant' has become a common term in the field of chemistry to refer to the starting materials that undergo change in a chemical reaction.

See also: nonreactive, reactance, reaction, reactions, reactive, reactively, reactivity, unreactive, unreactiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,325, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.