Cognates in English Language: Septum and Septa
What is the meaning of the word "septum"?
In medical terminology, septum is defined as "a dividing wall or membrane," such as a nasal septum.
Which option best defines the word "septa" as a cognate of "septum"?
a) Rubber stoppers made especially for large beakers.
b) Rubber stoppers that join the contents of the flasks with the outside atmosphere.
c) Rubber stoppers that eject the flask's contents.
d) Rubber stoppers that seal the contents of flasks from the outside.
Answer:
d) Rubber stoppers that seal the contents of flasks from the outside.
When rubber stoppers are used to close flasks, they serve as a "wall" or barrier to shield the contents from the outside environment. In chemistry, this is referred to as a "septa."
The term "septa" in the context of chemistry refers to rubber stoppers that are employed in experiments, frequently involving flasks. The idea of a dividing wall or enclosure, which is the main purpose of these stoppers, connects the septum and septa. They serve as a wall or barrier, sealing the flasks' contents from the outside.
These rubber stoppers are not manufactured specifically for large beakers, from recycled materials, nor are they intended to discharge or mix the contents of the flask with the surrounding air. The basic purpose of the flask is still to shut off and safeguard its contents from the outside world.