How Do You Spell GLYCOL?

Pronunciation: [ɡlˈa͡ɪkɒl] (IPA)

The word "glycol" is spelled with a hard "g" sound and an "ol" ending. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "bit" and the second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "goal". The IPA phonetic transcription for "glycol" is ˈɡlaɪkɔːl. It is a chemical compound commonly used as a solvent, antifreeze, and in the production of polyester resins. The correct spelling is important when researching or working with chemicals to avoid confusion or errors.

GLYCOL Meaning and Definition

  1. Glycol refers to a class of organic compounds that contains two hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups. These compounds are usually clear, colorless liquids that have a sweet taste. They belong to the family of alcohols, denoted by the general formula HOCH2-R-OH, where R represents an alkyl or aryl group. Glycols are widely used in various industrial and commercial applications due to their unique physical and chemical properties.

    One of the most common glycols is ethylene glycol (EG), which is a clear, viscous liquid. It is extensively utilized as a coolant and antifreeze in cars, as well as a precursor for the production of polyester fibers and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics. EG's ability to lower the freezing point and elevate the boiling point of water makes it an excellent choice for preventing engine overheating and protecting against freezing temperatures.

    Another notable glycol is propylene glycol (PG), also a clear, viscous liquid. PG finds application as a solvent, humectant, and emulsifier in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. Due to its low toxicity, PG is approved for use in a wide range of products that come into contact with the human body.

    Glycols possess unique properties that make them crucial to many industries. Their ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, exceptional stability, and solubility in both water and organic solvents contribute to their versatility. The diverse range of applications for glycols highlights their significance as key chemical compounds in various sectors.

  2. 1. One of a group of bivalent alcohols which can form two series of esters with monobasic acids. 2. Ethylene glycol, CH2.-OH.CH2OH.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for GLYCOL

Etymology of GLYCOL

The word "glycol" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It originates from the combination of the Greek word "glykys", meaning "sweet", and the suffix "-ol", which in chemistry typically denotes an alcohol.

The term "glycol" was coined in the late 19th century to describe a class of organic compounds that contain two hydroxyl groups (-OH) in their molecular structure. These compounds were found to have a sweet taste, hence the association with the Greek word for sweetness. The "-ol" suffix was added to indicate the presence of alcohol functional groups.

The most well-known compound in this group is ethylene glycol, which is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting liquid. Ethylene glycol is commonly used as an industrial solvent and coolant, most notably in engine antifreeze.

Similar spelling words for GLYCOL

Plural form of GLYCOL is GLYCOLS

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