chemical reaction

[ kem-i-kuhl ree-ak-shuhn ]

noun

1. Chemistry. reaction ( def 7 ).

chemical reaction

noun

1. a process that involves changes in the structure and energy content of atoms, molecules, or ions but not their nuclei Compare nuclear reaction

chemical reaction

1. A process in which atoms of the same or different elements rearrange themselves to form a new substance. While they do so, they either absorb heat or give it off.

Word History and Origins

Origin of chemical reaction¹

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

For every 50 degrees Centigrade, you change the chemical reaction rate by a factor of two.

From The Daily Beast

Gastric juice is slightly acid in its chemical reaction, containing about .2 per cent free hydrochloric acid.

From Project Gutenberg

The iron oxide is put in it to make it more basic for the chemical reaction that is to take place.

From Project Gutenberg

And then, as though slowly dissolving through some chemical reaction, the old man began to fade.

From Project Gutenberg

If the soil contains acid, a chemical reaction occurs between it and zinc sulfid, and hydrogen sulfid gas is liberated.

From Project Gutenberg

Man cannot love the insect or the chemical reaction which he studies, without sacrificing a part of himself.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• vicious circle