Oxidizable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oxidizable

[ˈɒksɪˌdaɪzəbl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

chemistry

Capable of being oxidized; susceptible to reaction with oxygen or other oxidizing agents.

Synonyms

combustible, flammable, reactive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
oxidizable

Use 'oxidizable' for materials that can react with oxygen. Often used in scientific and technical contexts.

  • Iron is an oxidizable metal that forms rust when exposed to air
  • Certain chemicals are highly oxidizable and must be handled with care
combustible

Use 'combustible' to describe materials that can burn. It is often used in safety warnings and regulations.

  • Store combustible materials away from open flames
  • The storage area contains combustible liquids
flammable

Use 'flammable' when referring to substances that catch fire easily. Typically seen on labels of household or industrial products.

  • This spray paint is highly flammable
  • Keep flammable objects away from heat sources
reactive

Use 'reactive' when describing substances that can easily undergo chemical reactions. Commonly used in chemistry and dangerous goods classifications.

  • The laboratory contains highly reactive chemicals
  • These two substances are very reactive and must not be stored together

Examples of usage

  • This metal is highly oxidizable when exposed to air.
  • The organic compound is oxidizable due to its chemical structure.

Translations

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

Origin of 'oxidizable'

The word 'oxidizable' is derived from the noun 'oxidize', which comes from the French word 'oxidation' and ultimately from the Latin word 'oxydare', meaning 'to bring forth acid'. The concept of oxidation has been known since ancient times, with early references to the process found in the works of ancient Greek and Roman scholars. The modern understanding of oxidation and the term 'oxidizable' emerged in the field of chemistry in the 18th century with the development of the oxygen theory of combustion.


See also: oxidization, oxidizing.