Definition

Noun: A white, toxic, inorganic chemical compound with the formula BaO₂. It is produced industrially by heating barium oxide (BaO) in the presence of air or oxygen. It is a strong oxidizing agent.

Usage

Barium dioxide is primarily used in industrial and laboratory contexts. It is not a common word in everyday conversation. - It is used in the production of hydrogen peroxide and as a source of oxygen. - It is handled with care due to its toxic and oxidizing properties.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The laboratory ordered a new supply of barium dioxide for the oxidation experiments.
  • When heated, barium dioxide decomposes to release oxygen.
  • Proper safety gear is essential when handling barium dioxide.

Advanced Usage

• Chemical Synthesis: Barium dioxide serves as a precursor or reagent in various chemical syntheses, particularly where a controlled source of oxygen is needed.
  • The old method of producing hydrogen peroxide involved reacting barium dioxide with sulfuric acid.

Variants and Related Words

• Barium peroxide: This is a direct synonym for barium dioxide, reflecting its chemical composition (BaO₂).
• Barium oxide (BaO): The compound from which barium dioxide is produced by heating in air.

Synonyms

• Barium peroxide: The most common technical synonym.

Notes on Meaning

The term refers specifically to the chemical compound BaO₂. It does not have idiomatic or figurative meanings. Its usage is confined to scientific fields such as chemistry, materials science, and industrial manufacturing.

Noun

1. a white toxic powder obtained by heating barium oxide in air