Dystectic

/dɪsˈtek.tɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to a chemical mixture that requires a higher temperature to melt than its individual pure components would suggest, or relating to poor building or construction.

Etymology

From Greek 'dys-' (bad/difficult) + 'tektos' (built/melted). In chemistry, it contrasts with 'eutectic' which describes ideal melting conditions.

Kelly Says

Metallurgists curse dystectic alloys because they stubbornly resist melting at the temperatures chemistry theory predicts—nature isn't always cooperative about following the rules, and industrial furnaces often have to be cranked up hotter than expected.

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