concentration
kon-sen-TRAY-shuhn
/ˌkɒn.sənˈtreɪ.ʃən/
The ratio of pure perfume oil to alcohol and water in a fragrance, which determines its strength and longevity.
In perfumery, concentration defines the category of the product (e.g., Cologne, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, Extrait).
The story behind the word. The word literally means 'to bring toward a common center'. In chemistry, it came to describe bringing more molecules of a substance together into a smaller space, making the solution stronger and more potent.
Word relationships
- strength: Strength is a general term for intensity, while concentration is a precise scientific ratio of solute to solvent.
- density: Density refers to mass per unit volume, whereas concentration refers to the amount of a specific substance mixed into another.
- dilution: Dilution is the process of making a liquid weaker or less concentrated by adding more solvent.
Commonly confused with
- volume: Volume is the total amount of liquid in the bottle (e.g., 100ml), while concentration is the percentage of that liquid that consists of pure perfume oil.
Word family
- concentrate (verb): To make a liquid stronger by removing water or adding solute.
- concentrated (adjective): Intense; containing a high ratio of active substance.
Collocations
- high concentration
- low concentration
- oil concentration
- measure the concentration
Example sentences
- "Because of its high concentration of essential oils, an Eau de Parfum lasts much longer than a splash cologne." Explaining the difference between fragrance types.
- "The chemist carefully measured the concentration of the active ingredients to ensure consistency across batches." A laboratory measurement.
Memory hook
Think of bringing all the scent oils 'together' into the 'center' of the bottle to make it super strong. Scent strength ratio.
When not to use
Do not confuse this physical chemistry definition with the mental state of intense focus, though they share the same word.
Fun facts
- An 'Extrait de Parfum' can have a concentration of up to 40% oil, meaning it is so potent that a single drop can linger on the skin for over twenty-four hours.
Explore more words
purposeful, concerted, deliberate, assiduous, diligent, intensify
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