Hydrophilic

usgb/haɪˈdroʊfɪlɪk/
adjective

Describing a substance that has a strong affinity for water.

Salt is hydrophilic and dissolves easily in water.
Visual representation of "hydrophilic" - Describing a substance that has a strong affinity for water.

Usage tips

Neutral

hydrophilic interaction, hydrophilic surface, hydrophilic molecules

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Visual representation of "hydrophilic"
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Literal

Hydrophilic literally means 'water-loving' and is used to describe materials that easily interact with water.

Illustration for Literal
The hydrophilic properties of sugar make it dissolve quickly in water.
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Comparative

Hydrophilicity can be compared to hydrophobicity, which describes water-repelling substances.

Illustration for Comparative
Understanding both hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics is essential in chemistry.
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Context

Hydrophilic substances are crucial in biological processes, such as how proteins interact with water.

Illustration for Context
Many proteins have hydrophilic regions that help them function in aqueous environments.
Visual representation of the word "Hydrophilic"

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