Oxidation: meaning, definitions and examples
🔥
oxidation
[ˌɒksɪˈdeɪʃən ]
Definitions
chemical reactions
The process or result of oxidizing, or of being oxidized. It is the combination of a substance with oxygen.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| oxidation |
Oxidation is commonly used in chemistry and general science to describe the process where a substance combines with oxygen, or loses electrons, often leading to rust or deterioration of metals.
|
Examples of usage
- The oxidation of iron results in the formation of rust.
- The oxidation of glucose in the body produces energy.
biology
The loss of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion.
Synonyms
electron loss.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| oxidation |
Use when describing the chemical process where a substance gains oxygen or loses electrons. Commonly used in scientific discussions like chemistry or biology.
|
| electron loss |
Specifically refers to the process where an atom or molecule loses an electron. Often used in detailed scientific explanations, especially in physics and chemistry.
|
Examples of usage
- Oxidation is an essential part of cellular respiration.
- During photosynthesis, plants undergo both oxidation and reduction reactions.
wine
The process of aging wine in the presence of oxygen.
Synonyms
aging with oxygen.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| oxidation |
This term is used in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry and biology, to describe a process where a substance loses electrons, often involving the reaction with oxygen.
|
| aging with oxygen |
This phrase is more descriptive and is typically used in layman terms to explain the effect of oxygen exposure on materials or living organisms over time, implying a gradual change or degradation.
|
Examples of usage
- Some wines benefit from controlled oxidation during the aging process.
- Oxidation can change the flavor profile of a wine over time.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'oxidation' comes from the Latin word 'oxydans,' which means 'acidifying'.
- The prefix 'oxi-' refers to 'oxygen', indicating the element’s key role in the process.
- The concept was first introduced in the late 18th century when scientists began to study chemical reactions.
Everyday Examples
- Rust forming on iron is a common example of oxidation, which leads to the deterioration of metal over time.
- When an apple is cut, it can turn brown due to oxidation, showing how air affects its color.
- Fire is a rapid form of oxidation, where substances combine with oxygen, producing heat and light.
Science
- In biological systems, oxidation is crucial for cellular respiration, allowing organisms to convert food into energy.
- Antioxidants are substances that help prevent oxidation, protecting cells from damage.
- Oxidation reactions are vital in many industrial processes, including the production of energy and raw materials.
Pop Culture
- The idea of oxidation is often simplified in science classes and movies, sometimes leading to misunderstandings.
- Oxidation is a central theme in many science fiction stories where characters create or harness energy through chemical reactions.
Health and Environment
- Oxidation plays a role in aging and degenerative diseases, as the body’s cells can become damaged over time.
- Many health supplements contain antioxidants to combat the negative effects of oxidation in the body.
- Environmental oxidants, like certain air pollutants, can have harmful effects on health and ecosystems.
Translations
Translations of the word "oxidation" in other languages:
🇵🇹 oxidação
🇮🇳 ऑक्सीडेशन
🇩🇪 Oxidation
🇮🇩 oksidasi
🇺🇦 окиснення
🇵🇱 utlenianie
🇯🇵 酸化 (さんか)
🇫🇷 oxydation
🇪🇸 oxidación
🇹🇷 oksidasyon
🇰🇷 산화 (산화)
🇸🇦 أكسدة
🇨🇿 oxidace
🇸🇰 oxidácia
🇨🇳 氧化 (yǎnghuà)
🇸🇮 oksidacija
🇮🇸 oxun
🇰🇿 оксидтеу
🇬🇪 ოქსიდაცია
🇦🇿 oksidləşmə
🇲🇽 oxidación