Coazervation

/koʊæzərˈveɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The process by which complex molecules, like proteins and other polymers, spontaneously aggregate and separate from a solution into liquid droplets.

Etymology

From 'coazervate' (the noun) + '-tion' (suffix forming nouns of action or process). This scientific term was developed in the early 20th century as biochemists studied how molecules behave in solution.

Kelly Says

Coacervation might be one of the most important processes you've never heard of—it could explain not just how life began, but also how cells organize their internal chemistry today, and scientists are even using it to design artificial cells!

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