percolation

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the slow passage of a liquid through pores or small spaces in soil, rock, or another material

   The percolation of rainwater through the soil carried minerals into the stream.

2. 2
   noun

   filtration through a porous substance, especially to extract or purify something

   The laboratory used percolation to extract soluble compounds from the ground leaves.

From Latin percolatio, based on percolare, 'to strain through,' from per, 'through,' + colare, 'to strain,' from colum, 'strainer.' Scientific uses extend the physical image of liquid finding connected passages through a porous material.

Topics