glycol
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- Any of a class of alcohols having 2 hydroxyl groups in each molecule: A glycol is a type of organic chemical compound belonging to the diol family, characterized by the presence of two hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to different carbon atoms.
- A sweet but poisonous syrupy liquid used as an antifreeze and solvent: Specifically, this often refers to ethylene glycol, a common, colorless, odorless, viscous liquid with a sweet taste that is highly toxic. It is widely utilized in automotive antifreeze and as an industrial solvent.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The chemist synthesized a new glycol for the polymer experiment. (Referring to the chemical class)
- The mechanic warned that glycol from a leaking radiator is dangerous for pets. (Referring specifically to ethylene glycol as antifreeze)
- Propylene glycol is considered less toxic than ethylene glycol and is used in food and pharmaceuticals.
Advanced Usage
"Glycol ether": A class of solvents based on glycol, commonly used in paints, inks, and cleaners.
- The formulation uses a glycol ether to improve the flow of the paint.
"Glycol dehydration": An industrial process to remove water from natural gas using a glycol solution.
- The gas plant uses a glycol dehydration unit to meet pipeline specifications.
Variants and Related Words
Ethylene glycol (n): The most common type, used primarily as antifreeze.
- Ethylene glycol lowers the freezing point of water in a car's cooling system.
Propylene glycol (n): A less toxic glycol used in food processing, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
- Propylene glycol is a common humectant in lotions and electronic cigarette liquid.
Diethylene glycol (n): A compound with similar structure and uses, but involved in notable poisoning incidents.
- Glycerol/Glycerin (n): A related compound with three hydroxyl groups (a triol), not a glycol.
Synonyms
- Diol: The general chemical term for a compound containing two hydroxyl groups.
- Antifreeze agent: When referring to its primary application (specifically for ethylene glycol).
Related Phrases and Compounds
Glycol-based: Describing a product or fluid whose main ingredient is a glycol.
- The aircraft uses a glycol-based de-icing fluid on its wings.
Glycol coolant: Another term for antifreeze made with glycol.
- Remember to flush and replace the glycol coolant every two years.
Noun
- any of a class of alcohols having 2 hydroxyl groups in each molecule
- a sweet but poisonous syrupy liquid used as an antifreeze and solvent