# reflux

/ˈɹiˌfɫəks/ (US) · /ɹˈiːflʌks/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reflux
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a chemical reaction where the products of a reaction are used again as the starting materials. This helps the reaction continue until it reaches a final result.

For teachers: a chemical process in which the products of a reaction are recycled as reactants. This is often used to describe the continuous operation of a chemical plant or the recombination of materials in a biological system.

## Examples

- The factory uses a reflux system to keep the reaction going.
- In a laboratory setting, a reflux apparatus is used to maintain a constant temperature while the reaction occurs.
- The industrial process relies on a closed-loop reflux system to minimize waste and ensure that all raw materials are eventually converted into the final product.

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