Decalcification

/diːˌkælsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The process of removing calcium or calcium salts from something, such as bones or water.

Etymology

From 'de-' (remove) + 'calcification' (the process of calcium hardening). Used in both medical and industrial contexts since the 19th century.

Kelly Says

Decalcification is what happens when archaeological bones sit in acidic soil for thousands of years—the calcium leaches away, which is why ancient bones are so fragile compared to modern ones!

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