The word "oxidizable" (UK: ˈɒksɪdaɪzəbl̩, US: ˈɑːksɪdaɪzəbl̩) refers to the ability of a substance to undergo oxidation. The word is spelled with a "z" in the middle, despite the fact that the letter "s" is usually used for words with the suffix "-ize" (e.g. realize, organize). This is because the suffix "-ize" is derived from Greek, where the letter "z" is used instead of "s". So, while the spelling of "oxidizable" may seem unusual, it is consistent with the etymology of the word.
Oxidizable is an adjective used to describe a substance or material that is susceptible to undergoing oxidation. When a substance is oxidizable, it has the potential to react with oxygen or another oxidizing agent, resulting in a chemical reaction known as oxidation.
Oxidation involves the loss of electrons from the oxidizable substance, which leads to the formation of new chemical compounds. This process typically occurs when the oxidizable substance comes into contact with oxygen, such as in the presence of air or an oxidizing agent.
An oxidizable material can be in various forms, including solid, liquid, or gas. Examples of oxidizable substances include metals like iron, which can rust when exposed to air, and organic compounds like oils, fats, and carbohydrates, which can undergo combustion when heated.
It is important to note that not all materials are easily oxidizable. Some substances, such as noble metals like gold or platinum, are highly resistant to oxidation. On the other hand, certain materials with a high oxidative potential, such as strong oxidizing agents like chlorine or potassium permanganate, can readily oxidize other substances.
Overall, the term "oxidizable" is used to indicate the ability or tendency of a substance to undergo oxidation, highlighting its reactivity towards oxygen or other oxidizing agents.
The word "oxidizable" derives from the combination of two main elements: "oxidize" and the suffix "-able".
1. "Oxidize" comes from the term "oxide", which refers to a chemical compound formed when oxygen combines with another element or compound. The verb "oxidize" means to chemically react with oxygen or to lose electrons in a chemical reaction. It comes from the Latin word "oxīdāre", which is a combination of "ox(y-) " (meaning "oxygen") and "sīdus" (meaning "star" or "heavenly body").
2. The suffix "-able" is added to the word "oxidize" to form the adjective "oxidizable". This suffix is derived from the Latin suffix "-abilis" and Old French "-able", both of which indicate the ability or capacity to do something.