amphoteric
[ am-fuh-ter-ik ]
/ ˌæm fəˈtɛr ɪk /
adjective Chemistry.
capable of functioning either as an acid or as a base.
Origin of amphoteric
Words nearby amphoteric
Example sentences from the Web for amphoteric
In regard to the indications of the amphoteric character of stronger acids, see Chapter XV.
The Elements of Qualitative Chemical Analysis, vol. 1, parts 1 and 2. |Julius StieglitzBodies of this kind are known as "amphoteric electrolytes," since they yield both positive and negative ions, if dissociated.
The Chemistry of Plant Life |Roscoe Wilfred Thatcher
British Dictionary definitions for amphoteric
amphoteric
/ (ˌæmfəˈtɛrɪk) /
adjective
chem
able to function as either a base or an acid
Also: amphiprotic
Word Origin for amphoteric
C19: from Greek
amphoteros each of two (from
amphō both) +
-ic
Medical definitions for amphoteric
amphoteric
[ ăm′fə-tĕr′ĭk ]
adj.
Having the capacity to react as either an acid or a base.
Scientific definitions for amphoteric
amphoteric
[ ăm′fə-tĕr′ĭk ]
Capable of reacting chemically as either an acid or a base. Water, ammonia, and the hydroxides of certain metals are amphoteric.