ion exchange

noun

1. the process of reciprocal transfer of ions between a solution and a resin or other suitable solid.

ion exchange

noun

1. the process in which ions are exchanged between a solution and an insoluble solid, usually a resin. It is used to soften water, to separate radioactive isotopes, and to purify certain industrial chemicals

ion exchange

1. A reversible chemical reaction between two substances (usually a relatively insoluble solid and a solution) during which ions of equal charge may be interchanged. Ion exchange is used in water softening and purification, chemical analysis, the separation of radioactive isotopes, and kidney dialysis.
2. ◆ Cation exchange is the exchange of positively charged ions.
3. ◆ Anion exchange is the exchange of negatively charged ions.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ion exchange¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

He recommends treating the issue at the water point of entry to the home with cation exchange resin, a type of ion exchange.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite its potential, however, the lack of a systematic approach to predicting appropriate material combinations for ion exchange has hindered its widespread adoption, necessitating laborious trial-and-error experiments.

From Science Daily

If you opt for a whole house treatment system, which a plumber can attach where the water enters the house, ion exchange resin is probably the best choice.

From Salon

"The VSD domain responds to the change in voltage by pushing its rodlike S4 helix inwards. This clears the way for ion exchange by SLC9C1, ultimately initiating sperm motility," says David Drew.

From Science Daily

Lilac plans to use the funds to construct a U.S. manufacturing facility for ion exchange beads, which are core to its extraction process.

From Reuters