stearate
Definition
- Noun (Chemistry):
- A salt or ester of stearic acid. In practical terms, "stearate" is a chemical compound formed when stearic acid reacts with a base (producing a salt) or an alcohol (producing an ester). It is commonly used in soaps, cosmetics, and as a lubricant.
Usage Examples
- (A salt of stearic acid used in soap-making.)
- (An ester of stearic acid used in pharmaceuticals.)
Advanced Usage
- "Stearate" in industrial contexts: It refers to any compound where the stearate ion (C₁₇H₃₅COO⁻) is bonded to a metal or organic group.
- Calcium stearate is used as a waterproofing agent in construction materials. (A specific stearate salt applied for moisture resistance.)
Variants and Related Words
- Stearic acid (n): the fatty acid from which stearate is derived, found in animal fats and some vegetable oils.
- Stearic acid is a common ingredient in candles and cosmetics. (The parent compound of stearate.)
Synonyms
- Salt of stearic acid: a direct description of the chemical nature.
- Ester of stearic acid: a description when referring to the ester form.
- Fatty acid salt: a broader category that includes stearate.
Related Idioms
- (No common idioms exist for "stearate," as it is a technical term.)
Phrasal Verbs
- (No phrasal verbs are associated with "stearate," as it is a noun.)