Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
dihydrate
Noun
ˌdaɪˈhaɪˌdreɪt
Definition
A compound that contains two molecules of water for each molecule of the compound.
Examples
- Many salts, such as copper(II) sulfate, can exist as dihydrates.
- The dihydrate form of the compound is often more stable than the anhydrous form.
- In laboratory experiments, the dihydrate can be transformed into its anhydrous counterpart by heating.
Meaning
In the context of chemistry, a dihydrate is a type of hydrate. Hydrates are solid compounds that incorporate water into their crystalline structure, and a dihydrate specifically contains two water molecules.
Synonyms
- Two-water compound
- Dihydrated salt
- Hydrated compound
