Definition

Noun: * A type of glass with a relatively low softening point: "Soft glass" refers to a category of glass, typically soda-lime glass, that becomes pliable and can be worked at lower temperatures compared to other types like borosilicate ("hard") glass. This property makes it easier to melt and shape.

Usage

This is a technical term used primarily in materials science, glassblowing, and manufacturing. * It is used to classify and describe the thermal properties of glass. * It is often contrasted with "hard glass" or "borosilicate glass."

Examples

• Traditional glass bottles and window panes are often made from soft glass.
• Because soft glass has a lower working temperature, it is commonly used by beginner glassblowers.
• The laboratory switched to borosilicate flasks because soft glass is more susceptible to thermal shock.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used attributively to modify other nouns, describing objects made from this material.
  • Example: The artist preferred soft glass tubing for her intricate designs.

Variants and Related Words

• Soda-lime glass: This is the most common specific type of soft glass, composed mainly of silica, soda, and lime.
• Hard glass: A general term for glasses, like borosilicate, with higher softening points and better thermal resistance.
• Borosilicate glass: A specific type of hard glass known for its low coefficient of thermal expansion (e.g., Pyrex).

Synonyms

• Soda-lime glass (in most common contexts)

Antonyms

• Hard glass
• Borosilicate glass

Noun

1. glass having a relatively low softening point