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Unsaturated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unsaturated

[สŒnหˆsรฆtสƒสŠreษชtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

chemistry context

The term 'unsaturated' generally refers to a compound that contains one or more double or triple bonds between carbon atoms. In organic chemistry, unsaturated hydrocarbons have fewer hydrogen atoms than saturated hydrocarbons, which only contain single bonds. This property often results in greater reactivity in unsaturated compounds. Unsaturated fats, for example, are typically liquid at room temperature and are considered healthier than saturated fats.

Synonyms

incomplete, non-saturated, reactive.

Examples of usage

  • Olive oil is rich in unsaturated fats.
  • The unsaturated solution reacted quickly with the reagent.
  • Unsaturated compounds tend to undergo addition reactions.
  • In chemistry, unsaturated indicates multiple bonding.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Chemistry

  • Unsaturated fats have one or more double bonds in their chemical structure, making them more flexible than saturated fats.
  • When liquids like oils are unsaturated, they can dissolve more solute compared to saturated solutions where no more can mix in.

Nutrition

  • Eating unsaturated fats, found in foods like avocados and nuts, can be beneficial for heart health compared to saturated fats from animal products.
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are examples of essential unsaturated fats that our bodies need but can't produce.

Environmental Science

  • Unsaturated zones in soil refer to the areas not completely filled with water, which is crucial for plant roots and ecosystem balance.
  • In climate discussions, unsaturated air refers to moisture content that is not at its maximum capacity, affecting weather patterns.

Health

  • Higher intake of unsaturated fats is associated with lower cholesterol levels and reduced risks of heart disease.
  • Nutrition guidelines often encourage replacing saturated fats with unsaturated options for healthier diets.

Technology

  • In food processing, unsaturated oils are often used to enhance flavors and improve texture in products like margarine.
  • The study of unsaturated compounds is significant in creating synthetic materials, such as plastics that require certain properties.

Origin of 'unsaturated'

The word 'unsaturated' is derived from the prefix 'un-' which means 'not,' combined with 'saturated,' which comes from the Latin 'saturare,' meaning 'to fill, to satisfy, or soak.' The concept initially emerged within the context of chemistry in the 19th century, particularly with developments in organic chemistry and the understanding of molecular structures. As chemists began to explore hydrocarbons and their bonding characteristics, the term was adopted to differentiate compounds that could accommodate additional hydrogen atoms (unsaturated) from those that were already maximally filled (saturated). Over time, the usage of the term expanded to other fields, including nutrition, where unsaturated fats are recognized for their significant health benefits compared to saturated fats.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,624, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.