A substance that absorbs moisture from the air is described as?

The term that describes a substance that absorbs moisture from the air is hygroscopic. Hygroscopic materials have the ability to attract and hold water vapor from the surrounding environment. This characteristic is significant in various fields, including funeral service education, as it pertains to the preservation and management of various substances used in embalming and preparation.

Hygroscopic materials are often used in embalming fluids to maintain stability and prevent premature spoilage or degradation. By absorbing moisture, they can help control the humidity levels within embalming environments, contributing to the overall effectiveness of preservation practices.

While deliquescent substances also absorb moisture, they typically absorb enough water to dissolve and turn into a liquid, which distinguishes them from hygroscopic substances that do not necessarily dissolve. Understanding these terms and their implications in practical applications is vital in the field of funeral service, particularly for maintaining the quality of materials and the well-being of the deceased.