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Glite Dictionary
phthalic acid

phthalic acid

7.9
A white acid used to make dyes, perfumes and other chemicals
  • noun
  • /ˈθælɪk ˈæsɪd/
  • Specialized
translation icon : ácido ftálico
  • Pure phthalic acid is a white, crystalline solid frequently used in the manufacture of synthetic dyes.

Examples

  • The chemist used phthalic acid to create a new dye.

  • Many industrial processes require phthalic acid as a precursor for creating plasticizers.

  • The laboratory ordered a new supply of phthalic acid for its ongoing research.

  • Several phthalic acids are used in various industrial applications.

  • Many industrial processes require phthalic acid as a precursor for creating plasticizers.

  • Pure phthalic acid is a white, crystalline solid frequently used in the manufacture of synthetic dyes.

  • The laboratory ordered a new supply of phthalic acid for its ongoing research.

Surface Forms

phthalic acid singular
phthalic acids plural

Morphology

phthalic + acid

The phrase is compositionally regular (adjective + acid), so a learner who knows the constituents can infer it denotes a particular kind of acid. However, 'phthalic' is a technical chemical adjective with no transparent, everyday meaning for a B1 learner, so the precise referent and properties are not predictable without domain knowledge.

Etymology

Phthalic acid may get its name from an old dye word 'phthalein'. Chemists first made this chemical while working on dyes, so the name helps you remember that phthalic acid is used to make dyes, perfumes, and plastics today.