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surface-active agent

DEFINITIONS OF: surface-active agent

1

n a chemical agent capable of reducing the surface tension of a liquid in which it is dissolved

Synonyms:
surfactant, wetter, wetting agent
Types:
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emulsifier
a surface-active agent that promotes the formation of an emulsion
detergent
a surface-active chemical widely used in industry and laundering
anionic, anionic detergent, non-ionic detergent
a class of synthetic detergents in which the molecules do not ionize in aqueous solutions
lecithin
a yellow phospholipid essential for the metabolism of fats; found in egg yolk and in many plant and animal cells; used commercially as an emulsifier
cationic detergent, invert soap
a class of synthetic detergents in which the surface-active part of the molecule is the cation
SLS, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulphate
a caustic detergent useful for removing grease; although commonly included in personal care items (shampoos and toothpastes etc.) it can irritate skin and should not be swallowed
Type of:
chemical agent
an agent that produces chemical reactions
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