Environmental Organic Chemistry for Engineers

Glossary

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Abiotic Not associated with living organisms; synonymous with abiological.

Abiotic transformation The process in which a substance in the environment is modified by nonbiological mechanisms.

Absorption The penetration of atoms, ions, or molecules into the bulk mass of a substance.

Abyssal zone The portion of the ocean floor below 3281–6561 ft where light does not penetrate and where temperatures are low and pressures are intense; this zone lies seaward of the continental slope and covers approximately 75% of the ocean floor; the temperature does not rise above 4°C (39°F); since oxygen is present, a diverse community of invertebrates and fishes do exist, and some have adapted to harsh environments such as hydrothermal vents of volcanic ...