tetrabasic, a. Chem.
(tɛtrəˈbeɪsɪk)
[f. tetra- + basic.]
Of an acid: Containing four atoms of hydrogen replaceable by more electropositive elements or radicals. Of a salt: Derived from such an acid.
| 1863–72 Watts Dict. Chem. I. 459 Modes of distinguishing between monobasic, dibasic, tribasic, and tetrabasic acids. 1869 Roscoe Elem. Chem. xv. 154 Pyrophosphoric Acid..H4P2O7... This acid is tetrabasic, the four atoms of hydrogen being replaceable, either all or in part, by metals. |