Non-water-soluble

Describing a substance or compound that does not dissolve or readily mix with water. This property is determined by the substance's molecular structure and its interaction with water molecules. non-water-soluble compounds typically lack strong polar groups, making them hydrophobic (water-fearing). They may be soluble in organic solvents, which are non-polar or less polar than water. The extent of solubility can vary greatly, ranging from nearly insoluble to slightly soluble.

Non-water-soluble meaning with examples

• Lipids, like fats and oils, are primarily non-water-soluble. This characteristic is vital for their roles in energy storage and cell membrane structure. Because they don't mix with the watery environment inside cells, these lipids can form separate compartments and transport specific molecules like vitamins through the body, but their insolubility is a key factor in health conditions like obesity if excess consumption happens.
• Certain vitamins, specifically the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, are non-water-soluble. Their absorption depends on the presence of dietary fats in the digestive system. This insolubility means they're stored in body fat, and excessive intake can potentially lead to toxicity. Unlike water-soluble vitamins which are frequently excreted, excess consumption can be problematic.
• Many plastics and polymers are deliberately designed to be non-water-soluble to ensure their durability and resistance to environmental degradation. This property makes them suitable for various applications, from food packaging and construction materials to biomedical devices. Unfortunately, it also contributes to the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment and can persist there for hundreds of years.
• The majority of petroleum products, including gasoline and crude oil, are non-water-soluble. This property leads to serious environmental contamination when oil spills occur in aquatic environments. The oil floats on the surface, forming slicks that can suffocate marine life and damage ecosystems. Clean up efforts focus on oil collection.