chemical reaction

[kem-i-kuhl ree-ak-shuhn]

noun

1. Chemistry.,  reaction.

chemical reaction

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

chemical reaction

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of chemical reaction¹

First recorded in 1780–90

Related Words

• vicious circle