Heteropolar

/ˌhetərəˈpoʊlər/ adjective

Definition

Having two different poles or differing in polarity, used in chemistry, physics, or geology.

Etymology

From Greek 'hetero-' (different) + Latin 'polaris' (relating to poles). The term emerged in 19th-century science to describe asymmetrical charge or magnetic distribution.

Kelly Says

Water is the ultimate heteropolar molecule—one end has a slight negative charge and the other slight positive, which is why it dissolves salt and makes life possible!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.