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

Supercapacitors are a developing category of energy storage devices that rely on electrostatic charge storage instead of the chemical reactions used in batteries.

From Science Daily

The intriguing markings, nicknamed leopard spots and poppy seeds, contain minerals produced by chemical reactions that could be associated with ancient microbes.

From BBC

Understanding how many atoms move and interact inside laser-driven polyatomic molecules is essential for any attempt to guide chemical reactions using intense light.

From Science Daily

To address this challenge, the researchers used mechanochemistry, a sustainable approach in which mechanical force drives chemical reactions rather than high heat.

From Science Daily

Most chemical reactions rely on heat to move forward, but light has recently become an important alternative.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• vicious circle