electrolyte

e·lec·tro·lyte  (-lktr-lt)

n.

1. A chemical compound that ionizes when dissolved or molten to produce an electrically conductive medium.

2. Physiology Any of various ions, such as sodium, potassium, or chloride, required by cells to regulate the electric charge and flow of water molecules across the cell membrane.

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electrolyte

Noun

a solution or molten substance that conducts electricity

electrolytic adj

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electrolyte  (-lktr-lt)

1. A melted or dissolved compound that has broken apart into ions (anions and cations). Applying an electric field across an electrolyte causes the anions and cations to move in opposite directions, thereby conducting electrical current while gradually separating the ions. See also electrodialysiselectrolysis

2. Any of these ions found in body fluids. Electrolytes are needed by cells to regulate the flow of water molecules across cell membranes.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

electrolyte - a solution that conducts electricity; "the proper amount and distribution of electrolytes in the body is essential for health" solution - a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances; frequently (but not necessarily) a liquid solution; "he used a solution of peroxide and water" polyelectrolyte - an electrolyte of high molecular weight