DIOXIN Meaning and
Definition
-
Dioxin is a highly toxic and persistent family of chemicals that are part of a group of compounds called polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). These compounds are primarily by-products of industrial processes, including incineration of waste, certain chemical reactions, and various combustion processes, especially those involving chlorine.
Dioxins are characterized by their chemical structure, consisting of two benzene rings linked by two oxygen atoms (dioxygenated) with chlorine substituents attached at different positions. Due to their stable molecular structure and resistance to degradation, dioxins are classified as environmental pollutants that can persist for many years in soil, sediments, and water.
Exposure to dioxins can occur through ingestion of contaminated food or water, inhalation of contaminated air, and contact with contaminated soil. Dioxins accumulate in the fatty tissues of animals, including humans, and pose a significant health risk. They are known to be carcinogenic, meaning they can cause cancer, and can also adversely affect the immune system, reproductive system, and hormonal system.
Efforts to reduce dioxin exposure focus on minimizing industrial emissions, improving waste management practices, and implementing pollution control measures. Regulatory agencies worldwide have set strict limits on dioxin levels in various products and processes to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Common Misspellings for DIOXIN
Etymology of DIOXIN
The word "dioxin" was coined in the mid-20th century. It is derived from the chemical name "dibenzodioxin", which describes its molecular structure.
The term "dioxin" combines the prefix "di-" (meaning two) with "benzo" (referring to benzene, a hydrocarbon ring structure) and "dioxin", which comes from the combination of "di-" and "oxin". "Oxin" is derived from a Greek word meaning "sharp" or "bitter", which likely refers to the toxic nature of these compounds.
Similar spelling words for DIOXIN
- discina,
- diskin,
- Dixon,
- disjoin,
- dizon,
- dixson,
- dig in,
- Digna,
- Dixion,
- dison,
- disown,
- dijon,
- dizen.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
