Hydrophobe definitions
| Word backwards | ebohpordyh |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | hy-dro-phobe |
| Plural | The plural of the word hydrophobe is hydrophobes. |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (2) | o,e |
| Consonants (6) | h,y,d,r,p,b |
Hydrophobe refers to a molecule or substance that repels water. The term comes from the Greek words "hydro," meaning water, and "phobos," meaning fear or aversion. Hydrophobic substances are typically nonpolar, meaning they do not have a significant separation of electric charge, unlike polar molecules like water.
Properties of Hydrophobic Molecules
Hydrophobic molecules tend to be nonpolar and interact with other hydrophobic molecules or substances due to their aversion to water. This is known as the hydrophobic effect, where hydrophobic molecules cluster together to minimize their contact with water. Lipids, such as fats and oils, are examples of hydrophobic molecules with long nonpolar tails that repel water.
Role in Biology
In biology, hydrophobic interactions play a crucial role in the structure and function of biological molecules. Cell membranes, for example, have a double-layered structure made up of hydrophilic heads that face outward and hydrophobic tails that face inward, creating a barrier that separates the cell from its environment. This structure allows the cell to control the passage of substances in and out of the cell.
Applications in Nanotechnology
Hydrophobic molecules are also used in nanotechnology to create self-assembled structures and coatings. By manipulating the hydrophobic interactions between molecules, researchers can design new materials with specific properties. For example, hydrophobic nanoparticles can be used to deliver drugs to specific targets in the body by adhering to cell membranes.
In conclusion, hydrophobe refers to a molecule or substance that repels water due to its nonpolar nature. Understanding hydrophobic interactions is essential in various fields, from biology to nanotechnology, and has led to the development of innovative technologies and materials.
Hydrophobe Examples
- The hydrophobe coating on the surface repels water, causing it to bead up and roll off.
- A hydrophobe molecule does not interact with water molecules due to its non-polar nature.
- The fabric was treated with a hydrophobe to make it water-resistant.
- The hydrophobe tail of the molecule avoids contact with the aqueous solution.
- Hydrophobe groups in the lipid bilayer prevent water from passing through.
- Adding a hydrophobe to the solution altered its surface tension properties.
- The hydrophobe compound formed a separate phase in the water-based solution.
- The hydrophobe chain in the polymer repels moisture, making it ideal for outdoor use.
- The hydrophobe polymer film prevents the passage of water vapor, creating a moisture barrier.
- Hydrophobe additives in paint help it to resist water damage and wear over time.