noun
- crystalline compounds in which molecules of one substance are trapped within the crystal structure of another, forming cage-like arrangements
Usage: chemistry; geology
Examples
- Methane clathrates found on the ocean floor represent a potential energy source.
- Gas clathrates form when water molecules create cage structures around gas molecules.
- Scientists study clathrates to understand their role in climate change.
- The stability of clathrates depends on temperature and pressure conditions.
- Natural gas clathrates are sometimes called fire ice due to their flammable properties.
- Researchers are investigating how to safely extract energy from clathrates.