How Do You Spell PYROPHORUS?

Pronunciation: [pˌa͡ɪɹə͡ʊfˈɔːɹəs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "pyrophorus" may seem intimidating at first glance, but it is quite straightforward once broken down using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced pahy-ruh-fawr-uh s, with emphasis on the second syllable. The "pyr" in pyrophorus refers to fire, while "phorus" means to bear or carry, translated to "fire-bearer." This word is often used to describe bioluminescent beetles of the genus Pyrophorus, which emit a glow from their bodies.

PYROPHORUS Meaning and Definition

1. Pyrophorus is a term derived from the Greek words "pyr" meaning fire and "phoros" meaning bearing or carrying. It refers to a chemical substance or compound that has the ability to ignite spontaneously upon exposure to air. These remarkable materials are known for their pyrophoric properties, which make them highly flammable without the need for an external ignition source.

   Pyrophori can come in various forms, such as powders, solids, or liquids. They typically contain highly reactive elements such as phosphorus, alkali metals, or alkaline earth metals. The presence of these elements confers the pyrophoric characteristics to the substance, allowing it to react vigorously and ignite upon contact with atmospheric oxygen.

   The ignition mechanism of pyrophorus involves a rapid oxidation reaction, often accompanied by the emission of sparks or flames. It is important to handle pyrophoric substances with great care because their spontaneous ignition can lead to fires, explosions, or other hazardous situations. Special precautions must be taken during storage, transport, and handling to prevent accidental exposure to air or moisture that may trigger ignition.

   Pyrophori have found various applications in industry, research laboratories, and military uses. They have been used to create incendiary devices, fireworks, and flares. In addition, pyrophorus has been employed as reducing agents, catalysts, or initiators in chemical reactions. The development of safer pyrophoric substances with improved stability and control over ignition properties remains an active area of research.

2. Any substance inflaming spontaneously on exposure to the air.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PYROPHORUS

• oyrophorus
• lyrophorus
• -yrophorus
• 0yrophorus
• ptrophorus
• pgrophorus
• phrophorus
• purophorus
• p7rophorus
• p6rophorus
• pyeophorus
• pydophorus
• pyfophorus
• pytophorus
• py5ophorus
• py4ophorus
• pyriphorus
• pyrkphorus
• pyrlphorus
• pyorphorus

Etymology of PYROPHORUS

The word "pyrophorus" is derived from two Greek words: "pyr" which means "fire" and "phoros" which means "carrier" or "bearer". So, "pyrophorus" means "fire carrier" or "fire bearer" in Greek.

Similar spelling word for PYROPHORUS

• parophrys.

Plural form of PYROPHORUS is PYROPHORUSES