What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interfacial
Example
The interfacial tension between oil and water is high due to their immiscibility. [interfacial: adjective]
Example
The interfacial area between the two liquids affects the rate of mass transfer. [interfacial: adjective]
interphase
Example
Interphase is the longest stage of the cell cycle, accounting for about 90% of the total time. [interphase: noun]
Example
During interphase, the cell undergoes DNA replication and prepares for cell division. [interphase: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Interphase is more commonly used than interfacial in scientific literature, as it is a fundamental concept in biology and biochemistry. Interfacial is less common but still important in chemistry and physics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between interfacial and interphase?
Both interfacial and interphase are technical terms used in scientific fields, making them formal in nature. However, interphase may be more commonly used in everyday scientific language due to its fundamental role in cell biology.
