synthesis
SIN-thuh-sis
/ˈsɪnθəsɪs/
The production of chemical compounds by reaction from simpler materials.
In nanotechnology, it often refers to 'chemical vapor deposition' or other methods used to grow nanotubes or nanoparticles.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'sunthesis', meaning 'a putting together'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe the combination of parts into a whole.
Word relationships
- creation: Creation is much more general; synthesis implies a structured chemical process.
- formation: Formation can be natural; synthesis is usually intentional and laboratory-based.
- analysis: Analysis is breaking something down to understand it; synthesis is putting it together.
- decomposition: The breaking down of a compound into simpler parts.
Commonly confused with
- fabrication: Fabrication is building a device; synthesis is making the material the device is made of.
Word family
- synthesize (verb): To produce by synthesis.
- synthetic (adjective): Made by chemical synthesis; not natural.
Collocations
- chemical synthesis
- synthesis of materials
- organic synthesis
Example sentences
- "The synthesis of new nanomaterials requires precise control over temperature and pressure." A chemistry textbook.
- "We report a novel method for the large-scale synthesis of high-purity carbon nanotubes." A research abstract.
Memory hook
Think of 'Syn' (together) and 'Thesis' (an idea/position) — putting things together to make a whole. Putting together.
When not to use
In humanities, it means combining different ideas; in science, it is the physical creation of a substance.
Fun facts
- The word 'synthetic' often has a negative 'fake' connotation, but in science, a 'synthetic' diamond is chemically identical to a natural one.
Explore more words
synthesize, composition, production, integrate, reagent, composite
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