Science, Tech, Math › Science Supernate Definition in Chemistry Chemistry Glossary Definition of Supernate Print This diagram illustrates the process of chemical precipitation. ZabMilenko, Wikipedia Science Chemistry Chemical Laws Basics Molecules Periodic Table Projects & Experiments Scientific Method Biochemistry Physical Chemistry Medical Chemistry Chemistry In Everyday Life Famous Chemists Activities for Kids Abbreviations & Acronyms Biology Physics Geology Astronomy Weather & Climate By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Chemistry Expert Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels. Learn about our Editorial Process Updated on January 06, 2019 In chemistry, the supernate is the name given to the liquid found above a precipitate or sediment. Usually, the fluid is translucent. The term is best applied to the liquid above a precipitation reaction, after the precipitate has settled out, or to the liquid above the pellet from centrifugation. However, it may be applied to describe liquid after sediment has settled out of any mixture. Read More Solvent Definition in Chemistry By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Source Zumdahl, Steven S. (2005). Chemical Principles (5th ed.). New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 0-618-37206-7. Cite this Article Format mla apa chicago Your Citation Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Supernate Definition in Chemistry." ThoughtCo, Aug. 25, 2020, thoughtco.com/definition-of-supernate-604666. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2020, August 25). Supernate Definition in Chemistry. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-supernate-604666 Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Supernate Definition in Chemistry." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-supernate-604666 (accessed April 26, 2024). copy citation