reactant

[ ree-ak-tuhnt ]

noun

1. a person or thing that reacts.
2. Also called interactant. Chemistry. any substance that undergoes a chemical change in a given reaction.

reactant

/ rɪˈæktənt /

noun

1. a substance that participates in a chemical reaction, esp a substance that is present at the start of the reaction Compare product

reactant

/ rē-ăk′tənt /

1. A substance participating in a chemical reaction, especially one present at the start of the reaction.

Word History and Origins

Origin of reactant¹

First recorded in 1925–30; react + -ant

Example Sentences

The team used electrocatalysis, a type of chemical reaction initiated by electron transfers to and from reactants on surfaces of catalysts, to convert carbon dioxide into biocompatible intermediates, such as acetate and ethanol.

From Science Daily

This process involves destabilizing one of the aromatic rings in quinoline, using light and sometimes a catalyst, so that a reactant can 'latch' onto the ring, forming the target compound.

From Science Daily

Flows in liquid channels exhibit uneven velocity distribution due to friction with the walls, which subsequently influences the transport of dissolved substances and diffusing reactants in the liquid.

From Science Daily

Chemical industries often use catalytic reactions, involving laminar flow of reactants through catalysts.

From Science Daily

Furthermore, the use of conventional thin-film catalysts often results in inadequate separation of hydrogen bubbles, leading to blockages in the catalyst's active sites or hindering reactant movement, ultimately diminishing process efficiency.

From Science Daily

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