Definition

A colorless, unsaturated hydrocarbon found in nature, especially in human skin oil and shark liver oil, that plays a role in making cholesterol and is used in scientific studies.

Example

Squalene is often used in cosmetics for its moisturizing properties.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of squalene?

Yeah, I read that it's found in shark liver oil, right?

Exactly! It's also a major component of human sebum.

That's interesting! I didn't know it was so common in nature.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Squalene** → The word 'squalene' is derived from the Latin 'squalus' (meaning shark), referring to its original source from shark liver oil. The suffix '-ene' indicates that it is an unsaturated hydrocarbon. Thus, squalene is a compound originally obtained from sharks, specifically known for its role in the production of sterols and hormones.

Memory Tip

Think of 'squalus', which means shark, to remember that squalene is a compound originally sourced from shark liver oil.

Visually Confused Words