| definite | 1. Having certain or distinct; determinate in extent or greatness; limited; fixed; as, definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval. "Elements combine in definite proportions." (Whewell) 2. Having certain limits in signification; determinate; certain; precise; fixed; exact; clear; as, a definite word, term, or expression. 3. Determined; resolved. 4. Serving to define or restrict; limiting; determining; as, the definite article. Definite article, the essential law of chemical combination that every definite compound always contains the same elements in the same proportions by weight; and, if two or more elements form more than one compound with each other, the relative proportions of each are fixed. Compare Law of multiple proportions, under Multiple. Origin: L. Definitis, p. P. Of definire: cf. F. Defini. See Define. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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| law of definite proportions | The relative weights of the several elements forming a chemical compound are invariable. Synonym: Proust's law. (05 Mar 2000) |
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