Definition

1. 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

1. a white insoluble radiopaque powder used as a pigment