Definition

The process of removing a soluble substance from a solid by washing it with a liquid, usually water.

Example

The lixiviation of minerals is essential in extracting valuable metals from ore.

Conversation

I read an article about lixiviation in chemistry class today.

Oh really? What did they say about it?

They explained how it's used to separate soluble and insoluble substances.

That sounds interesting! I never knew there was a specific term for that process.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lixiviation → It is formed from "lixivium" (from Latin, meaning a solution or liquid obtained by leaching) and the suffix "-ation" (meaning the process of). The word describes the process of extracting soluble substances from a solid by washing with a liquid.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lixivium' as a liquid that helps to 'wash out' substances, which is what lixiviation means — the process of washing out soluble materials.

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