petrochemical
UK: ˌpetrəʊˈkemɪkl | US: ˌpetroʊˈkemɪkl
adj. relating to or denoting substances obtained by the refining and processing of petroleum or natural gas
n. a chemical obtained from petroleum or natural gas
The word "petrochemical" combines "petro-" (from Greek "petra," meaning "rock," referencing petroleum as "rock oil") and "chemical" (from "alchemy," via Arabic and Greek, meaning "substances derived through transformation"). The suffix "-ical" forms an adjective. The term emerged in the early 20th century to describe chemicals derived from fossil fuels, reflecting industrialization's reliance on petroleum.
The petrochemical industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions.
Plastics are common products made from petrochemicals.
Researchers are seeking alternatives to petrochemical-based fuels.
The refinery specializes in converting crude oil into petrochemical feedstocks.
Petrochemical plants often face strict environmental regulations.