countercurrent Definition
- 1a flow of fluid in the opposite direction to the movement of another fluid, especially one surrounding it
- 2a situation or process in which two opposing forces or factors are in balance
Using countercurrent: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "countercurrent" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The countercurrent system in fish gills allows for efficient oxygen exchange.
Example
The countercurrent exchange mechanism in the kidneys helps to maintain a concentration gradient.
Example
The countercurrent debate between the two political parties continues.
countercurrent Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for countercurrent
- counterflow
- backflow
- opposing current
Phrases with countercurrent
a process in the kidney that uses energy to create a concentration gradient, allowing for the reabsorption of water and solutes
Example
The countercurrent multiplier is essential for the production of concentrated urine.
a separation technique used in chemistry that relies on the use of two immiscible liquids with different densities
Example
Countercurrent chromatography is a powerful tool for purifying complex mixtures of molecules.
a laboratory technique used to detect and quantify specific proteins in a sample
Example
Countercurrent immunoelectrophoresis is commonly used in medical research and diagnosis.
Summary: countercurrent in Brief
The term 'countercurrent' [ˌkaʊntərˈkʌrənt] refers to a flow of fluid in the opposite direction to the movement of another fluid, especially one surrounding it. It can also describe a situation or process in which two opposing forces or factors are in balance. Examples of countercurrent include the countercurrent system in fish gills and the countercurrent exchange mechanism in the kidneys. The term also extends into phrases like 'countercurrent multiplier,' which describes a process in the kidney that creates a concentration gradient.
