barium sulfate
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A white insoluble radiopaque powder used as a pigment: Barium sulfate is a chemical compound. Its primary defining characteristic is that it is a white powder that does not dissolve in water. It is 'radiopaque', meaning it blocks X-rays, making it visible on radiographic images. This property, along with its inert nature, leads to its specific uses.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The patient drank a suspension of barium sulfate before the X-ray. (Here, 'barium sulfate' is the specific compound used as a contrast agent for its radiopaque property.)
- Barium sulfate is a common extender pigment in paints. (This example shows its use as a pigment, referring to the white powder.)
- The mineral form of barium sulfate is called barite. (This identifies the natural source of the compound.)
Advanced Usage
- In medical diagnostics: The phrase is almost exclusively used in technical contexts. Its use is defined by its application, e.g., "administering barium sulfate" for a "barium swallow" or "barium enema" procedure.
- In industrial contexts: It is specified as a material for its properties: "The formulation includes precipitated barium sulfate for brightness and chemical resistance."
Variants and Related Words
- Barite (n): The naturally occurring mineral form of barium sulfate.
- Barium meal (n): A diagnostic procedure involving swallowing barium sulfate.
- Barium enema (n): A diagnostic procedure involving introducing barium sulfate into the rectum.
- Contrast medium/agent (n): The general category of substances, including barium sulfate, used to enhance imaging.
Synonyms
- Barium sulphate (n): Alternative spelling, chiefly British English.
- Blanc fixe (n): A specific, processed form of barium sulfate used as a pigment.
Related Phrases/Compounds
- Barium sulfate suspension: The liquid mixture prepared for medical use.
- Barium sulfate contrast: A phrase emphasizing its diagnostic imaging role.
Noun
- a white insoluble radiopaque powder used as a pigment