desiccator

desiccator

A scientist places a sample inside a desiccator in the laboratory.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A container for drying: A "desiccator" is a specialized container, typically made of glass, used in laboratories to store substances in a dry environment or to remove moisture from them. It often contains a drying agent (like silica gel) that absorbs water vapor from the air inside.
    • A device for removing moisture: More broadly, "desiccator" can refer to any apparatus or machine designed to dry materials, such as an oven or a cabinet used for industrial or scientific drying processes.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The chemist placed the wet crystals into the desiccator to remove any remaining water. (A laboratory container used for drying substances.)
    • After harvesting, the samples were kept in a desiccator to prevent mold growth. (A device that maintains a dry environment for preservation.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to place in a desiccator": to put something inside this container for drying or storage.

    • The compound must be placed in a desiccator immediately after synthesis to avoid hydrolysis. (It should be stored in a moisture-free environment.)

  • "vacuum desiccator": a type of desiccator that can be evacuated to speed up the drying process.

    • For heat-sensitive materials, a vacuum desiccator is used to dry them at room temperature. (A desiccator connected to a vacuum pump.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Desiccate (verb): to remove moisture from something; to dry thoroughly.

    • The sun desiccated the fallen leaves, turning them brittle. (The sun dried the leaves completely.)

  • Desiccation (noun): the process of drying out or removing moisture.

    • Desiccation of the fruit preserves it for long-term storage. (The drying process extends shelf life.)

  • Desiccant (noun): a substance that absorbs moisture, often used inside a desiccator.

    • Silica gel is a common desiccant used to keep electronics dry. (A moisture-absorbing material.)
Synonyms
  • Drying chamber: a sealed space designed to remove moisture.
  • Dehumidifier: a device that reduces humidity in the air (though larger in scale than a typical desiccator).
Related Idioms