Oxidisable, sometimes spelled as oxidizable, refers to the property of a substance that can be oxidized, or undergo a chemical reaction where it loses electrons. The spelling is based on the root word "oxidize" and adds the suffix "able" to indicate the capability of undergoing oxidation. The phonetic transcription of oxidisable is /ˈɑksədaɪzəbəl/, with emphasis on the first syllable "oxi" and a long "i" sound in the second syllable "diz." The final syllable "able" is pronounced with a schwa sound.
Oxidisable is an adjective that describes a substance or material's propensity or ability to undergo oxidation. In chemistry, oxidation is a chemical reaction wherein a substance loses electrons, either by combining with an oxidizing agent or by losing hydrogen or gaining oxygen. This process often involves the transfer of energy and can result in the production of heat, light, or other chemical changes.
When a substance is described as oxidisable, it means that it has the potential to be oxidized. This property is typically associated with substances that can readily donate electrons, making them susceptible to oxidation. Oxidisable materials often have reactive chemical bonds or contain elements that can readily lose electrons.
It is important to note that the term oxidisable is used in contrast to substances that are oxidizing agents or that are resistant to oxidation. Oxidising agents are substances that gain electrons during a redox reaction, causing another substance to be oxidized. In comparison, oxidisable substances are the ones that provide the electrons or allow the reaction to occur.
The oxidisability of a material is often evaluated by considering its chemical composition, structure, and reactivity. This property can have various practical applications, such as in the fields of combustion, corrosion, or the design of chemical reactions. Understanding the oxidisable nature of a substance is crucial for managing its stability, reactivity, and potential hazards.
Capable of being oxidised.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "oxidisable" is formed by combining the prefix "oxi-" and the suffix "-isable".
The prefix "oxi-" is derived from the Greek word "oxys", which means "sharp" or "acid". In chemistry, it refers to an element's ability to combine with oxygen or gain electrons.
The suffix "-isable" is derived from the root word "able", which means "capable of" or "having the ability to". It is commonly used to form adjectives indicating the capacity or suitability for a certain action or process.
Therefore, "oxidisable" combines these two elements to create a word that describes the ability or susceptibility of a substance to undergo oxidation, meaning it is capable of reacting with oxygen or losing electrons.