What is the term used for substances that absorb moisture from the air?

Hygroscopic refers to substances that have the ability to absorb moisture from the air. This property allows hygroscopic materials to attract water vapor, which can lead to changes in their physical state or chemical properties. In various applications, understanding this characteristic is crucial, especially in fields like EOD where moisture control is vital for the stability and safety of certain materials.

On the other hand, hydrophilic describes materials that have an affinity for water, which may include hygroscopic substances, but it does not specifically denote the ability to absorb moisture from the air. The term maladaptive relates to behavioral responses that are detrimental and is not relevant in the context of moisture absorption. Hydrogen is a chemical element and does not pertain to the absorption of moisture. Thus, hygroscopic is the precise term for substances that can effectively absorb moisture from the atmosphere.