Nitrite Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งช
nitrite
[หnaษชtraษชt ]
Definition
chemical compound
Nitrite is a chemical compound containing the nitrite ion, NO2-, which is derived from nitric acid. It is commonly used as a food preservative and an additive in the production of cured meats. In biological contexts, nitrites can also play a role in the nitrogen cycle and the metabolism of various organisms.
Synonyms
NO2-, sodium nitrite.
Examples of usage
- Sodium nitrite is often found in bacon.
- Nitrites can form in water supplies due to pollution.
- Some people are concerned about nitrite levels in processed foods.
Translations
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Origin of 'nitrite'
The term 'nitrite' originates from the combining form 'nitr-' derived from 'nitre' (or 'niter'), which refers to sodium nitrate (NaNO3). The word 'nitre' comes from Latin 'nitrum' and Greek 'nitron' meaning 'soda'. The suffix '-ite' denotes a lower oxidation state than that denoted by '-ate', a convention established in chemical nomenclature during the late 18th and early 19th centuries as researchers sought to categorize and discuss various chemical substances. Nitrites were first isolated in 1776 by the chemist Joseph Louis Gay-Lussac and are significant in both industrial applications and environmental studies.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #15,151, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 15148 offsetting
- 15149 flatly
- 15150 stab
- 15151 nitrite
- 15152 benefactor
- 15153 shrunk
- 15154 guild
- ...