Silicic acid is spelled with the phonetic transcription "sɪˈlɪsɪk ˈæsɪd". The word is derived from the mineral silica, composed of silicon dioxide, and the suffix "-ic" indicating the acid characteristic. The spelling includes the consonant cluster "cic", which represents the combining form "-sic" indicating the presence of silicon. The accent is on the second syllable, "li", with the vowel "i" representing the short "ĭ" sound. Overall, the spelling accurately reflects the pronunciation of the word.
Silicic acid refers to a class of chemical compounds that contain silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms, with the general formula of H4SiO4. Also known as orthosilicic acid, it is an inorganic chemical compound classified as a weak acid due to its ability to donate a proton (H+) in aqueous solutions. Silicic acid can be formed by dissolving silicon dioxide (SiO2), commonly known as silica, in water.
Silicic acid is a key component in the formation of silicates, which are the most abundant minerals found in the Earth's crust. As such, it plays a crucial role in various geological processes, including the weathering of rocks and the formation of sedimentary rocks. It also acts as a vital nutrient for the growth and development of plants, functioning as a source of silicon, an essential element for plant growth.
In addition to its geological and biological significance, silicic acid also finds applications in various industrial processes. For instance, it is used in the production of silica-based materials like glasses, ceramics, and silicones. Silicic acid's ability to form solid compounds at high temperatures makes it a valuable ingredient in the manufacturing of heat-resistant and electrically insulating materials.
Overall, silicic acid is a chemically important compound that has significant implications in numerous scientific fields, from geology and biology to materials science and manufacturing.
One of several colloid acids, solutions of which in water are obtained by treating silicates, but which have not been isolated in a free state.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A name applied to silica, or a compound of silicon and oxygen, having certain of the properties of an acid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "silicic acid" is derived from the Latin word "silex" meaning "flint" or "hard stone". In Latin, the word "silex" was used to refer to any hard, stony substance. The suffix "-ic" indicates that it is an acid, while the "silic-" prefix indicates that it is related to silicon, which is the main component of silicates. Hence, "silicic acid" refers to an acid derived from silica or silicates, which are compounds containing silicon and oxygen.