Hydrocarbon: meaning, definitions and examples

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hydrocarbon

 

[ ˌhʌɪ.drəʊˈkɑː.bən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemistry

A compound of hydrogen and carbon, such as any of those which are the chief components of petroleum and natural gas.

Examples of usage

  • Hydrocarbons are the main source of energy worldwide.
  • Many hydrocarbons are used as fuels.
  • Some hydrocarbons are known for their greenhouse gas emissions.

Translations

Translations of the word "hydrocarbon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hidrocarboneto

🇮🇳 हाइड्रोकार्बन

🇩🇪 Kohlenwasserstoff

🇮🇩 hidrokarbon

🇺🇦 вуглеводень

🇵🇱 węglowodór

🇯🇵 炭化水素

🇫🇷 hydrocarbure

🇪🇸 hidrocarburo

🇹🇷 hidrokarbon

🇰🇷 탄화수소

🇸🇦 الهيدروكربون

🇨🇿 uhlovodík

🇸🇰 uhľovodík

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 ogljikovodik

🇮🇸 kolvetni

🇰🇿 көмірсутек

🇬🇪 ნახშირწყალბადი

🇦🇿 karbohidrogen

🇲🇽 hidrocarburo

Etymology

The term 'hydrocarbon' originated in the early 19th century from the combination of 'hydro' (meaning water) and 'carbon'. It was first used to describe compounds composed of only hydrogen and carbon atoms. Hydrocarbons play a crucial role in the energy industry and are essential for the production of fuels and various chemical products.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,316 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.