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Dioxin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dioxin

[daɪˈɒksɪn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

Dioxin refers to a group of chemically-related compounds that are environmental pollutants. They are byproducts of various industrial processes and combustion activities, and exposure to dioxins can lead to serious health issues, including cancer and reproductive problems.

Synonyms

contaminant, pollutant, toxic compound.

Examples of usage

  • The factory was cited for releasing dioxin into the river.
  • Scientists are studying the effects of dioxin exposure on wildlife.
  • High levels of dioxin were found in the soil near the incinerator.
  • Dioxins can accumulate in the food chain, especially in fatty tissues of animals.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Environmental Impact

  • Dioxins can be released into the environment through industrial processes, burning waste, or even forest fires.
  • These compounds tend to accumulate in the fat tissues of animals, making them a concern for the food chain and ecosystems.
  • Studies show that even low levels of exposure can lead to serious health issues, including immune and reproductive problems.

Health Concerns

  • Dioxin exposure is linked to various cancers, particularly soft tissue sarcoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • It can affect hormone systems, leading to potential developmental and reproductive disorders.
  • The World Health Organization considers dioxin and its derivatives to be persistent organic pollutants due to their long-lasting presence in the environment.

Pop Culture

  • Dioxins have been referenced in documentaries and media focused on environmental health, raising awareness about pollution.
  • In popular fiction, they are often used as a plot device to highlight corporate negligence and environmental disasters.

Regulation and Safety

  • Governments and international bodies have implemented regulations to monitor and reduce emissions of dioxins due to their health risks.
  • Cleanup efforts in contaminated sites often focus on reducing dioxin levels to protect public health.

Origin of 'dioxin'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'dioxin' comes from its chemical structure, consisting of two oxygen atoms (di-) and an aromatic compound.
  • Dioxins are part of a larger family of compounds, including furans, which share similar structures and properties.

The term 'dioxin' is derived from the compound's chemical structure. 'Dioxin' refers to a family of compounds that contain two oxygen atoms (dio-) and features a benzene-like structure. The discovery of dioxins began in the 19th century during the chemical synthesis of various organic compounds, but the harmful effects of dioxins were not recognized until the mid-20th century. Notably, dioxins became a major concern following their association with the herbicide Agent Orange, used during the Vietnam War, which caused severe health problems for veterans and the Vietnamese population. Over time, dioxins have been identified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that can bioaccumulate in the food chain, leading to growing environmental regulations and health studies focused on their impact.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,310, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.