How Do You Spell PYROXYLE?

Pronunciation: [pˌa͡ɪɹə͡ʊzˈa͡ɪl] (IPA)

Pyroxyle is a word used to describe a flammable substance that is derived from cellulose. The correct spelling of this word is "paɪrɒksaɪl". The "pyr-" prefix comes from the Greek word for fire, and the "-oxyle" suffix denotes a chemical compound. The spelling can be challenging due to the unfamiliar combination of letters, but it is essential to ensure accurate communication in scientific and technical fields. Proper spelling helps avoid confusion and misunderstandings that can result in serious consequences.

PYROXYLE Meaning and Definition

1. Pyroxyle refers to a type of highly flammable substance that is commonly used in the manufacturing of explosives, particularly gunpowder. It is a nitrocellulose compound in the form of a dry, yellowish powder, and is known for its explosive properties when ignited. The term "pyroxyle" is derived from the Greek words "pyr" meaning fire, and "oxylon" meaning acid, indicative of its combustible nature.

   In its raw form, pyroxyle is unstable and can easily decompose, making it necessary to stabilize it by blending it with other compounds to create explosive materials. Nitroglycerin is often added to enhance its explosive power. The resulting mixture is frequently used in various military applications, such as artillery ammunition, small arms cartridges, and pyrotechnics.

   Due to its volatile nature, pyroxyle must be handled with extreme caution. It is sensitive to heat, friction, and shock, which can lead to spontaneous ignition or unintended explosion. Therefore, its storage and transportation require specialized conditions to maintain safety.

   In addition to its role in the production of explosives, pyroxyle has also found applications in the manufacturing of celluloid, a highly flammable plastic material used in photography, film, and other industries. However, the use of pyroxyle-based materials has decreased over time due to safety concerns and the development of more stable alternatives.

2. In chem., gun-cotton.

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

Common Misspellings for PYROXYLE

• pyroxal
• oyroxyle
• lyroxyle
• -yroxyle
• 0yroxyle
• ptroxyle
• pgroxyle
• phroxyle
• puroxyle
• p7roxyle
• p6roxyle
• pyeoxyle
• pydoxyle
• pyfoxyle
• pytoxyle
• py5oxyle
• py4oxyle
• pyrixyle
• pyrkxyle
• pyrlxyle

Etymology of PYROXYLE

The word "pyroxyle" is derived from the Greek words "pyr" meaning "fire" and "xylon" meaning "wood". The term was coined by French chemist and physicist Théophile-Jules Pelouze in 1832 to describe a highly flammable substance obtained by treating wood or cotton fibers with nitric acid. This substance, later known as "gun cotton" or "nitrocellulose", was extensively used in the production of explosives and in the development of early photography.