Definition

A type of chemical compound that has three halogen atoms instead of three hydrogen atoms in a methane molecule. These compounds can form when chlorine is added to water to kill germs, especially when organic materials are present.

Example

Trihalomethanes can be found in drinking water that has been treated with chlorine.

Conversation

Did you know that trihalomethane can form in our drinking water?

Really? I had no idea that could happen.

Yeah, it's a byproduct of chlorine reacting with organic materials.

That's kind of concerning; I should check the water quality at home.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trihalomethane → It is formed from "tri-" (meaning three), "halo-" (from Greek "halos", meaning salt or salt-like), and "methane" (from Greek "methy", meaning wine, and "hēn", meaning one). The word refers to a compound that contains three halogen atoms bonded to a methane molecule.

Memory Tip

Think of 'three' ('tri-') halogen atoms ('halo-') attached to a 'methane' molecule — that's what trihalomethane is.

Visually Confused Words