diacid
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //daɪˈæsɪd//
KK: /daɪˈæsɪd/
adjective
Definition
Able to react with two molecules of a simple acid or one of a two-acid compound to create a salt or ester.
Example
The diacid compound can be used to produce various types of polymers.
Conversation
I was reading about diacid compounds in my chemistry book yesterday.
Oh really? What’s so special about them?
They can react with two molecules of a monobasic acid, which is pretty interesting.
That does sound fascinating! Chemistry has so many cool concepts.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dicarboxylic
bifunctional
divalent
Antonyms
monobasic
univalent
simple
noun
Definition
A type of acid that contains two hydrogen atoms that can be replaced by bases in a chemical reaction.
Example
Citric acid is a common diacid found in citrus fruits.
Conversation
Have you heard about diacid compounds in chemistry?
Yeah, I think they have two acidic hydrogen atoms, right?
Exactly! It's interesting how they react differently than other acids.
Root Explanation
Diacid → It is formed from "di-" (meaning two) and "acidus" (from Latin, meaning sour or acid). The word "diacid" refers to a compound that contains two acidic groups.
Memory Tip
Think of 'di-' meaning two, and 'acid' referring to something sour — so a diacid is a substance with two sour or acidic parts.
Visually Confused Words
mediacid
biacid
acid