MOLECULAR OXYGEN Meaning and
Definition
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Molecular oxygen, commonly referred to as O2, is a chemical compound consisting of two oxygen atoms held together by a covalent bond. It is the most stable and abundant form of oxygen found on Earth, constituting approximately 20.95% of dry air at sea level. Molecular oxygen plays a vital role in supporting various life forms and is essential for respiration.
In terms of its physical properties, molecular oxygen is a colorless, odorless gas with a density slightly higher than air. It is paramagnetic, meaning it can be weakly attracted to a magnetic field due to the presence of unpaired electrons. Molecular oxygen has a boiling point of -183 degrees Celsius (-297 degrees Fahrenheit) and a melting point of -218.4 degrees Celsius (-361 degrees Fahrenheit).
While molecular oxygen is crucial for the survival of many organisms, it is not produced by all living things. Rather, it is commonly generated through photosynthesis in plants, algae, and some bacteria. In this process, light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and molecular oxygen.
In addition to its role in respiration, molecular oxygen also supports combustion, making it valuable in various industrial processes and as a component in medical applications. It is used in hospitals to assist patients with breathing difficulties and is an essential ingredient in the production of steel, chemicals, and rocket propellants.
Overall, molecular oxygen constitutes a fundamental element in the natural and human-made world, driving essential biological processes, as well as providing significant benefits and applications in numerous industries.
Etymology of MOLECULAR OXYGEN
The word "molecular" comes from the Latin word "molecula", which means "a small mass". Its use in English first appeared in the late 18th century.
The word "oxygen" comes from the French word "oxygène", which was coined by Antoine Lavoisier in the late 18th century. Lavoisier derived the term from the Greek words "oxys" (acid) and "gennan" (generate), literally meaning "acid generator". This name was given to the element due to its role in forming acids when combined with other elements.
