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monobasic

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌmɒnəʊˈbeɪsɪk/

KK: /ˈmɒnəʊˌbeɪsɪk/

adjective
Definition

Describing a substance that can donate only one hydrogen ion in a chemical reaction, or has only one replaceable hydrogen atom.


Example

The solution is monobasic, meaning it can donate just one hydrogen ion to the reaction.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that some acids are classified as monobasic?
Sloth B
Really? I had no idea there were different types of acids.
Sloth A
Yeah, it just means they can donate one hydrogen ion in a reaction.
Sloth B
That makes sense! Chemistry can be pretty interesting sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
monoprotic
univalent
simple
Antonyms
dibasic
tribasic
polybasic
Root Explanation

Monobasic → It is formed from "mono-" (meaning one) and "basic" (from Greek "basis", meaning foundation or base). The word "monobasic" refers to a substance that has one basic or foundational component, particularly in chemistry.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mono-' meaning one, and 'basic' referring to a foundation. This helps you remember that 'monobasic' describes something with one foundational component.

Visually Confused Words
ammonobasic
nonbasic
monastic
gonoblastic
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