propionate
- adjective
- /ˈprɒpɪəneɪt/
- Specialized
- The propionate compound is commonly used in food preservation.
Examples
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A propionate ester was added to the mixture to observe its chemical reaction.
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The laboratory used a propionate solution to study bacterial growth.
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Researchers analyzed the propionate compound for its potential health benefits.
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Many cheeses contain propionate to extend shelf life.
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The researchers used a propionate compound to investigate its effects on fermentation.
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In the study, a propionate solution was effective in inhibiting bacterial growth.
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Scientists discovered that the propionate ester improved the stability of the formulation.
Synonyms
Relating to a small acid made by some bacteria and found in some foods
Surface Forms
Morphology
propionate = propionic (semi-transparent) = propion + ate
Formation is the chemical naming pattern from 'propionic' + '-ate', which is clear if the learner knows chemistry naming conventions but may be opaque to general B1 learners.
Etymology
Propionate comes from propionic (the acid) plus the ending -ate, which here means 'salt or ester'. The prop- part is the same as in propane and shows a 'three-carbon' piece, so propionate as an adjective means 'relating to or containing that three-carbon acid or its salts/esters'.