What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
zwitterionic
Example
The amino acid glycine is zwitterionic in nature. [zwitterionic: adjective]
Example
Zwitterionic surfactants are used in personal care products due to their mildness. [zwitterionic: adjective]
amphoteric
Example
Aluminum hydroxide is an amphoteric compound used in antacids. [amphoteric: adjective]
Example
The oxide layer on metals makes them amphoteric in nature. [amphoteric: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Amphoteric is more commonly used than zwitterionic in everyday language, as it has a broader scope and can be applied to a wider range of substances.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between zwitterionic and amphoteric?
Both zwitterionic and amphoteric are technical terms used in chemistry, and are therefore more formal in tone and context.
