Copper(II) Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งช
copper(II)
[หkษpษr(II) ]
Definition
chemical compound
Copper(II) refers to the oxidation state of copper where it has lost two electrons, resulting in a +2 charge. It is commonly found in various compounds, particularly copper(II) oxide and copper(II) sulfate, which are used in various industrial and laboratory applications.
Synonyms
Cuยฒโบ, copper(II) ion, cupric.
Examples of usage
- Copper(II) sulfate is often used as a fungicide.
- In electrochemistry, the behavior of copper(II) ions can be studied.
- Copper(II) oxide is used in the production of glass.
- Many copper(II) salts are soluble in water.
Translations
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Origin of 'copper(II)'
The term 'copper' derives from the Latin 'cuprum', which itself comes from the Greek 'kyprios', meaning 'of Cyprus', as the island was known for its copper mines. Copper has been known and used by humans for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting that its use predates the introduction of bronze. The specific oxidation states of copper were first clearly defined in the 19th century with the advancement of the atomic theory and the understanding of chemical bonding. The distinction between copper(I) (cuprous) and copper(II) (cupric) became critical as chemists began to understand the role of valence electrons in redox reactions and complex ion formation. Today, Copper(II) compounds are widely studied for their applications in chemistry, biology, and materials science.