Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

coacervation

Noun

/kō-ˌä-sər-ˈvā-tion/

Definition

Coacervation is the process by which fine droplets of a liquid phase separate from a homogeneous solution when the solution is subjected to certain conditions.

Examples

Coacervation can be used in the encapsulation of nutrients in food technology.
The study of coacervation is important in understanding how cells organize their internal structures.
In pharmaceuticals, coacervation is investigated for drug delivery systems.

Meaning

The term refers to the aggregation of colloidal droplets in a solution, leading to the formation of distinct phases. This process is often observed in biological systems and can be important for various applications in chemistry and materials science.