IMMISCIBLE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "immiscible" refers to the innate properties of two or more substances that are incapable of mixing or dissolving into each other. When substances are immiscible, they are unable to form a homogeneous mixture due to their distinct and separate natures. This characteristic is commonly observed in liquids, although it can also occur with other states of matter.
In the case of immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, they form distinct layers when combined, with each substance occupying a separate phase. This segregation occurs because the intermolecular forces of the substances involved are incompatible or repellent. Immiscible substances tend to have significantly different polarities, densities, or molecular properties, preventing them from achieving a uniform distribution.
Furthermore, immiscible substances do not form a stable and uniform solution, as their individual particles tend to separate and segregate over time. Even after vigorous shaking or stirring, immiscible substances will spontaneously separate due to their intrinsic incompatibility.
The inability of immiscible substances to mix plays a crucial role in various practical applications. This property is exploited in processes such as liquid-liquid extraction, where two immiscible solvents are used to separate specific components from a mixture. Additionally, immiscible substances can provide barriers or insulating layers, as seen in the case of oil separating from water in engines or the formation of lipid bilayers in cell membranes.
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Incapable of mixing, as oil and water, for example.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for IMMISCIBLE
Etymology of IMMISCIBLE
The word "immiscible" originated from the Latin word "immiscibilis". It is derived from the verb "miscere", meaning "to mix". The prefix "im-" in Latin acts as a negation, thus giving the word its meaning of "not mixable" or "incapable of being mixed". The term "immiscible" is commonly used in chemistry and refers to substances that are incapable of being mixed or blended together.
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