Definition

1. Adjective (Chemistry):
   • Having a cage-like structure: Describes a chemical compound, typically a solid, in which molecules of one substance are physically trapped within the crystal lattice of another. The host lattice forms a cage-like or latticed structure with holes or windows.
   • Resembling a lattice or network: Describes any structure that is pierced with holes or has a latticed, grid-like appearance.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Clathrate compounds, like gas hydrates, can store methane within a cage of water molecules.
  • The scientist studied the clathrate structure formed when the noble gas was trapped in the organic host.
  • Under the microscope, the mineral had a beautiful clathrate appearance, full of geometric openings.

Advanced Usage

• Clathrate Hydrate: A specific and important type of clathrate compound where a gas (e.g., methane, carbon dioxide) is trapped within a crystalline structure of water ice. These are found in permafrost and deep ocean sediments.
  • Methane clathrate deposits on the ocean floor are a potential future energy source.

Variants and Related Words

• Clathration (n): The process of forming a clathrate compound.
• Inclusion Compound (n): A broader term for a complex where one component is enclosed within another; clathrates are a specific type of inclusion compound.

Synonyms

• Adjective: Cage-like, lattice-like, fenestrated (having windows or openings), intercalated (in a broader chemical sense).

Different Meanings

• The term is highly specialized and used almost exclusively in chemistry, materials science, and geology to describe specific structural forms. The general "latticed" meaning is rare outside technical contexts.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs using "clathrate" due to its technical nature.

Adjective

1. designating or relating to a compound in which one component is physically enclosed within the crystal structure of another
2. having a latticelike structure pierced with holes or windows