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thiophene

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /θaɪəˈfiːn/

KK: /θaɪəˈfin/

noun
Definition

A colorless liquid compound that contains sulfur and is used in various chemical applications, resembling benzene in structure.


Example

Thiophene is often used as a solvent in chemical reactions.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of thiophene?
Sloth B
Yeah, I've read it’s used as a solvent in some chemical processes.
Sloth A
I found out it resembles benzene, which is pretty interesting.
Sloth B
Definitely! It seems like a key compound in organic chemistry.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sulfide
solvent
aromatic
Antonyms
Root Explanation

Thiophene is formed from "thio-" (from Greek "thio", meaning sulfur) and "phene" (from Greek "phainesthai", meaning to appear or to show). The word refers to a compound that contains sulfur and has a structure that resembles benzene, thus showing its chemical properties.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sulfur' ('thio-') being part of a compound that 'appears' ('phene') similar to benzene, which helps you remember that thiophene is a sulfur-containing compound.

Visually Confused Words
penthiophene
isophene
penthiophen
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