Surface-active
adjective
1.
(of a substance, esp a detergent) capable of lowering the surface tension of a liquid, usually water See also surfactant
surface-active adj.
Of, relating to, or being a substance capable of reducing the surface tension of a liquid in which it is dissolved. Used especially of detergents.
Read Also:
- Surface-active agent
[sur-fis-ak-tiv] /ˈsɜr fɪsˌæk tɪv/ noun, Chemistry. 1. any substance that when dissolved in water or an aqueous solution reduces its surface tension or the interfacial tension between it and another liquid.
- Surface analgesia
surface analgesia n. See topical anesthesia.
- Surface anatomy
surface anatomy n. The study of the configuration of the surface of the body, especially in relation to its internal parts.
- Surface-boundary-layer
noun, Meteorology. 1. the thin layer of air adjacent to the earth’s surface, usually considered to be less than 300 feet (91 meters) high.
- Surface-condenser
noun 1. a device condensing steam or vapor by passing it over a cool surface. surface condenser noun 1. a steam condenser usually associated with a steam turbine in which the steam is condensed on the surface of tubes through which water is passed Compare jet condenser