Definitions
- Describing a liquid that is above a solid or sediment in a container. - Referring to the clear liquid portion of a mixture that has settled and separated from the solid or denser liquid. - Talking about the liquid layer that is on top after centrifugation or settling.
- Describing something that is on top of or covering another thing. - Referring to a layer or substance that is above another layer or substance. - Talking about something that is situated above or upon something else.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that is on top of something else.
- 2Both words are used in scientific contexts.
- 3Both words are used to describe layers or substances that are above other layers or substances.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Supernatant is typically used to describe liquids that have settled and separated from solids, while overlying can refer to any substance or layer that is on top of another.
- 2Composition: Supernatant refers specifically to the clear liquid portion of a mixture, while overlying does not imply clarity or transparency.
- 3Process: Supernatant is formed through settling or centrifugation, while overlying can be formed through various processes such as deposition or erosion.
- 4Scientific Fields: Supernatant is more commonly used in chemistry and biology, while overlying is more commonly used in geology and earth sciences.
- 5Connotation: Supernatant has a more technical and precise connotation, while overlying can be used in both technical and non-technical contexts.
Remember this!
Supernatant and overlying are both words used to describe something that is on top of something else. However, supernatant is specifically used to describe the clear liquid portion of a mixture that has settled and separated from the solid or denser liquid, while overlying can refer to any substance or layer that is on top of another. Additionally, supernatant is more commonly used in chemistry and biology, while overlying is more commonly used in geology and earth sciences.
