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

Example Sentences

When the team applied a negative voltage across the membrane, it triggered a chemical reaction inside the nanopore.

From Science Daily

Researchers have long suspected that chemical reactions with rocks removed much of it from the environment.

From Science Daily

Amino acids connect in chains to form proteins, which perform nearly all essential functions in living organisms, from constructing cells to driving chemical reactions.

From Science Daily

They can be created by living organisms, but some can also form through natural chemical reactions that do not involve life.

From Science Daily

More abundant metals tend to break down quickly, which reduces their ability to drive the chemical reaction.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• vicious circle