| nucleate cells that aid coagulation in the blood of those vertebrates that lack blood platelets |
| white blood cell having a two-lobed nucleus and basophilic granules in its cytoplasm |
| carbon dioxide | |
| —n | |
| Also called: carbonic-acid gas a colourless odourless incombustible gas present in the atmosphere and formed during respiration, the decomposition and combustion of organic compounds, and in the reaction of acids with carbonates: used in carbonated drinks, fire extinguishers, and as dry ice for refrigeration. Formula: CO2 | |
carbon dioxide n.
A colorless, odorless, incombustible gas formed during respiration, combustion, and organic decomposition and used in inert atmospheres, fire extinguishers, and aerosols.
| carbon dioxide
A colorless, odorless gas that is present in the atmosphere and is formed when any fuel containing carbon is burned. It is breathed out of an animal's lungs during respiration, is produced by the decay of organic matter, and is used by plants in photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide is also used in refrigeration, fire extinguishers, and carbonated drinks. Chemical formula: CO2. |
A compound made up of molecules containing one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms.
Note: Carbon dioxide is normally found as a gas that is breathed out by animals and absorbed by green plants. The plants, in turn, return oxygen to the atmosphere. (See carbon cycle and respiration.)
Note: Carbon dioxide is also given off in the burning of fossil fuels (see greenhouse effect).