ion exchange

ion exchange   n.  A reversible chemical reaction between an insoluble solid and a solution during which ions may be interchanged, used in water softening and in the separation of radioactive isotopes.

Main Entry: ion ex·change
Pronunciation: -iks-'chAnj
Function: noun
: a reversible interchange of one kind of ion present on an insoluble solid withanother of like charge present in a solution surrounding the solid with the reaction being used especially for softening or demineralizing water, purifying chemicals, or separating substances

ion exchange n.
A reversible chemical reaction occurring between an insoluble solid and a solution during which ions may be interchanged, used in the separation of radioactive isotopes.

ion exchange   A reversible chemical reaction between two substances (usually a relatively insoluble solid and a solution) during which ions of equal charge may be interchanged. Ion exchange is used in water softening and purification, chemical analysis, the separation of radioactive isotopes, and kidney dialysis. ◇ Cation exchange is the exchange of positively charged ions. ◇ Anion exchange is the exchange of negatively charged ions.