end-member

noun

: a pure chemical compound in some cases hypothetical but regarded as a component entering into solid solution with other pure chemical compounds to form an isomorphous series of minerals
fayalite Fe2SiO4 and forsterite Mg2SiO4 are end-members of the olivine series (Mg,Fe)2SiO4

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near end-member

Cite this Entry

“End-member.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/end-member. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!