maleic anhydride

American

noun

Chemistry.

a colorless crystalline, unsaturated compound, C 4 H 2 O 3 , that is soluble in acetone and hydrolyzes in water: used in the production of polyester resins, pesticides, and fumaric and tartaric acids.

Etymology

Origin of maleic anhydride

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It crystallizes in monoclinic prisms, which are easily soluble in water, melt at 130� C., and boil at 160� C., decomposing into water and maleic anhydride.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 3 "Frost" to "Fyzabad" by Various

It sublimes to some extent at about 200� C., being partially converted into maleic anhydride and water, the reaction becoming practically quantitative if dehydrating agents be used.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 3 "Frost" to "Fyzabad" by Various

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