chemical reaction

American  

[kem-i-kuhl ree-ak-shuhn] / ˈkɛm ɪ kəl riˈæk ʃən /

noun

1. Chemistry. reaction.

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chemical reaction British  

noun

1. a process that involves changes in the structure and energy content of atoms, molecules, or ions but not their nuclei Compare nuclear reaction

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chemical reaction Cultural  

1. A process in which atoms of the same or different elements rearrange themselves to form a new substance. While they do so, they either absorb heat or give it off.

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Etymology

Origin of chemical reaction

First recorded in 1780–90

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

chemical reaction

The achievement demonstrated that homochirality could be created through a chemical reaction rather than being unique to living organisms.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 7, 2026

Lithium-ion battery fires are challenging to combat as excessive heat inside a battery creates a self-sustaining chemical reaction called thermal runaway that can then easily spread to adjacent batteries.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 22, 2026

This sets off a chemical reaction freeing phosphorus, a primary nutrient for the algae, from the lake floor.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2026

The powders and the coating are carried by gas and brought together in a chemical reaction.

From BBC ● Sep. 10, 2026

“But what causes them to mix, Horace? This chemical reaction you speak of—what is it?”

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson

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