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non-absorbent

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

In science, non-absorbent refers to a material that does not allow fluids or other substances to pass through it. This means that non-absorbent materials will not get wet or dirty, and they will not dissolve in liquids.

Some common examples of non-absorbent materials include:

  • Plastic
  • Metal
  • Glass
  • Wax paper
  • Oil

Non-absorbent materials are often used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Raincoats and umbrellas: Non-absorbent materials are used to keep water out of clothing and other objects.
  • Food containers: Non-absorbent materials are used to store food without it getting wet or dirty.
  • Paints: Non-absorbent materials are used to create paints that do not soak into surfaces.
  • Lubricants: Non-absorbent materials are used to create lubricants that do not dissolve in liquids.

How can the word be used?

The word "non-absorbent" is related to the words "absorb" and "adsorb.".

non-absorbent

Different forms of the word

Adjective: Not absorbent.

Adverb: In a non-absorbent manner.

Etymology

The word "non-absorbent" is made up of the prefix "non-," which means "not," and the noun "absorbent," which means "able to take in or soak up liquid or moisture.".

The word "non-absorbent" was first used in the early 19th century. It was used to describe materials that were not able to absorb liquids or moisture.

Question

What does non-absorbent mean?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the concept of a non-absorbent material and provide an example of its use in daily life.

Answer:

A non-absorbent material refers to a substance that does not readily soak up or take in liquids or gases. This characteristic is due to its molecular structure, which lacks the ability to accommodate or incorporate substances within its structure. Instead, liquids or gases that come into contact with non-absorbent materials tend to stay on the surface, forming droplets or puddles.

An example of a non-absorbent material in daily life is glass. Glass is commonly used to make containers for liquids such as water, juice, and other beverages. When liquids are poured into a glass, they do not get absorbed into the glass itself. Instead, they remain on the surface in the form of a distinct liquid layer. This property of glass ensures that beverages are contained within the glass and do not interact chemically with the material.