Kolbe reaction

noun

Kol·​be reaction
ˈkōlbə-
variants or Kolbe synthesis
1
: the synthesis of a hydrocarbon (as ethane) by the electrolysis of a salt (as sodium acetate)
2
: the synthesis of salicylic acid by heating a mixture of sodium phenoxide and carbon dioxide under pressure at 180° to 200° C

Word History

Etymology

after A. W. Hermann Kolbe †1884 German organic chemist

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Dictionary Entries Near Kolbe reaction

Cite this Entry

“Kolbe reaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Kolbe%20reaction. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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