intercalation

[in-ter-kuh-ley-shuhn]

intercalation Definition

  • 1the insertion of a leap day, week, or month into some calendar years to harmonize it with the solar year
  • 2the insertion of a layer of one substance between the layers of another
  • 3the insertion of a molecule or ion into a crystal lattice

Using intercalation: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "intercalation" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The intercalation of an extra day in February is necessary to keep the Gregorian calendar in sync with the solar year.

  • Example

    The intercalation of a layer of graphite between the layers of molybdenum disulfide can enhance its electrical conductivity.

  • Example

    The intercalation of lithium ions into the graphite anode is what allows lithium-ion batteries to store energy.

intercalation Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for intercalation

Phrases with intercalation

  • a sequence of rock layers that has been interrupted by the deposition of a new layer

    Example

    The intercalation sequence of sandstone and shale indicates a period of alternating marine and terrestrial environments.

  • a compound formed by the insertion of a molecule or ion into the crystal lattice of another substance

    Example

    Graphite intercalation compounds have potential applications in energy storage and conversion.

  • the insertion of an extra lunar month into some lunar calendars to keep them in sync with the solar year

    Example

    The Chinese calendar uses a system of lunar intercalation to ensure that the lunar months align with the solar year.

Origins of intercalation

from Latin 'intercalare', meaning 'to insert'

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Summary: intercalation in Brief

Intercalation [in-ter-kuh-ley-shuhn] refers to the insertion of a leap day, week, or month into some calendar years to harmonize it with the solar year. It also denotes the insertion of a layer of one substance between the layers of another, or the insertion of a molecule or ion into a crystal lattice. Examples include the intercalation of an extra day in February to keep the Gregorian calendar in sync with the solar year, and the intercalation of lithium ions into the graphite anode in lithium-ion batteries.