How Do You Spell THERMOPHILIC?

1. Thermophilic is an adjective used to describe organisms, specifically microorganisms, that thrive in high-temperature environments, typically above 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit). The term is derived from the Greek words "thermo" meaning heat and "philos" meaning loving or fondness.

   Thermophilic organisms have unique adaptations that enable them to survive and reproduce in extreme heat conditions that would be lethal to most other life forms. These organisms are found in diverse habitats such as hot springs, volcanic vents, deep-sea hydrothermal vents, compost piles, and geothermal areas.

   One of the key features of thermophiles is their specialized proteins and enzymes, which are stable and function optimally at high temperatures. These unique biomolecules have evolved to withstand the heat-induced denaturation that typically disrupts the structure and function of most proteins.

   Thermophiles play vital ecological roles by driving nutrient cycling and energy production in their respective habitats. Some thermophilic microorganisms are also utilized in industrial applications such as biomining (extraction of metals from ores using living organisms) and biotechnology processes that require high-temperature conditions.

   The study of thermophilic organisms, known as thermophily, is important in various scientific fields such as microbiology, biochemistry, and astrobiology. Researchers study their adaptations to extreme heat to gain insights into the limits of life and the potential for extraterrestrial life on other planets or moons where high-temperature environments may exist.

2. Preferring heat; thriving best at a high temperature, said of bacteria which develop between the limits of 40° and 70° C. (104° and 158° F.), with an optimum of 50° to 55° C. (122° to 131° F.).

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for THERMOPHILIC

The word "thermophilic" is derived from two Greek roots: "thermo" meaning heat, and "philic" meaning loving or fond of.

The Greek word "thermo" (θερμός) is associated with heat, warmth, or hotness. It is the root of many other English words related to temperature, such as "thermometer" and "thermostat".

The suffix "-philic" comes from the Greek word "philia" (φιλία), which means love, fondness, or affinity for. It often denotes an attraction or preference toward something.

Therefore, combining the two roots, "thermophilic" literally means "heat-loving" or "fond of heat". In the context of biology, it is used to describe organisms, typically microorganisms, that thrive in high-temperature environments.

Similar spelling words for THERMOPHILIC