Which term describes a substance that readily absorbs water from its surroundings?

• A. Hydrophobic
• B. Hygroscopic
• C. Hydrophilic
• D. Anhydrous

Answer: (C)

Moisture uptake from the surrounding air is described by hygroscopic. Hygroscopic substances readily absorb water vapor and can form hydrates or solutions as a result, which is why desiccants like silica gel are used to remove moisture from the environment. Hydrophilic means water-loving and describes affinity for water, but it doesn’t automatically imply absorbing moisture from air; it often means dissolving in water or sticking to it rather than actively pulling water vapor from the atmosphere. Hydrophobic materials repel water, and anhydrous means lacking water altogether. So the term that best fits “readily absorbs water from its surroundings” is hygroscopic.