noun
- a spherical aggregate of surfactant molecules in a liquid, typically formed when the concentration exceeds a critical level
Usage: chemistry; technical
Examples
- The soap molecules formed micellae in the aqueous solution.
- Micellae help solubilize hydrophobic compounds in water.
- The critical micelle concentration determines when micellae begin to form.
- Detergent micellae can encapsulate oil droplets for cleaning.
- The size of micellae depends on the surfactant structure and solution conditions.