Definition

1. Noun:
   • The removal of minerals and mineral salts from a liquid (especially from water): The process of eliminating dissolved mineral content.
   • Abnormal loss of mineral salts (especially from bone): A pathological condition where essential minerals are lost from body tissues, leading to structural weakness.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The demineralization of seawater is a key step in producing fresh drinking water.
  • Osteoporosis involves the demineralization of bone, making it more fragile.

Advanced Usage

• "Demineralization of teeth": A process where minerals, primarily calcium and phosphate, are lost from tooth enamel, often due to acid exposure, which can lead to cavities.
  • Frequent consumption of sugary drinks can accelerate the demineralization of tooth enamel.

Variants and Related Words

• Demineralize (verb): To remove minerals from something.
  • The plant demineralizes water for use in laboratories.
• Demineralizer (noun): A device or substance used to remove minerals.
  • The aquarium uses a demineralizer to treat the tap water.

Synonyms

• Deionization (specifically for water treatment, involving ion removal).
• Mineral depletion.

Related Phrases

• Bone demineralization: Often used in medical contexts to describe conditions like osteoporosis.
  • Prolonged bed rest can contribute to bone demineralization.

Noun

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