Deliquescence

/ˌdelɪˈkwesns/

noun

The process by which a substance absorbs moisture from the atmosphere until it dissolves in the absorbed water and forms a solution.

Salt exhibits deliquescence as it absorbs water and dissolves when exposed to the air.

Technical

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

Understand deliquescence as a chemical process involving atmospheric moisture leading to a liquid solution.

The deliquescence of hygroscopic compounds in humid environments prevents the storage of certain products without airtight containers.

Pro Tip 2/3

Recognize the difference between deliquescence and melting; deliquescence involves dissolving from absorbed moisture, not heat.

The deliquescence of the substance looked like melting, but it was the high humidity that caused it, not temperature.

Pro Tip 3/3

Deliquescence is primarily used in scientific contexts, so it's not commonly found in everyday language.

During the experiment, we observed the deliquescence of the sodium hydroxide pellets.

absorptivecorrosiondecaydecompositiondisintegratedissolutionmeltwaterputrefaction

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.