Definition

1. Noun:
   • The process of removing minerals and mineral salts from a liquid, especially water: This refers to a technical process, such as in water treatment or industrial applications, where dissolved mineral content is eliminated.
   • The abnormal loss of mineral salts from the body, especially from bone tissue: This is a medical or biological condition where essential minerals are lost, leading to weakened structures like bones.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Process):
  • The demineralisation of seawater is necessary to produce potable water.
  • The laboratory uses a special filter for the demineralisation of the solvent.
• Noun (Medical Condition):
  • Prolonged bed rest can lead to bone demineralisation.
  • The X-ray showed signs of demineralisation in the patient's spine.

Advanced Usage

• "Demineralisation of teeth": A specific dental condition where minerals, like calcium, are lost from the tooth enamel, often a precursor to cavities.
  • Acidic drinks can accelerate the demineralisation of teeth.
• Used in environmental science to describe the leaching of minerals from soil.
  • Soil demineralisation can affect agricultural productivity.

Variants and Related Words

• Demineralise (verb): To remove minerals from something.
  • The plant demineralises water for use in laboratories.
• Demineralised (adjective): Describing something from which minerals have been removed.
  • Demineralised water is used in steam irons.
• Demineralization (noun): The American English spelling of 'demineralisation'.

Synonyms

• Deionization (specifically for water treatment, though technically distinct).
• Mineral loss (for the medical condition).
• Decalcification (specifically for loss of calcium salts).

Antonyms

• Mineralisation: The process of adding or depositing minerals.
• Remineralisation: The process of restoring lost minerals.

Noun

1. the removal of minerals and mineral salts from a liquid (especially from water)
2. abnormal loss of mineral salts (especially from bone)