Colligative

/kɒˈlɪɡ.ə.tɪv/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or depending on the binding together of parts; in chemistry, describing properties that depend on the number of dissolved particles, not their identity (like freezing point depression).

Etymology

From Latin 'colligativus,' from 'colligare' (to bind together), with the -ive suffix indicating an adjective of relation or quality.

Kelly Says

Colligative properties are wild—whether you dissolve salt, sugar, or antifreeze, the freezing point drops by the same amount if you use the same number of particles; the chemistry doesn't matter, just the count!

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