Deliquescence

/ˌdɛl.ɪˈkwɛs.əns/ noun

Definition

The process or quality of gradually melting or dissolving by absorbing moisture from the air.

Etymology

From 'deliquesce' plus the suffix '-ence,' which creates a noun describing a state or quality. The '-ence' suffix is the standard way to convert verbs (especially those with '-esce') into nouns.

Kelly Says

Deliquescence is used in chemistry labs and by scientists studying climate—some substances are so hygroscopic (moisture-loving) that they'll spontaneously turn to liquid if the humidity is high enough!

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