iodic

iodic

A student adds iodic acid to a test tube in the chemistry lab.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Relating to or containing iodine: "iodic" describes something that pertains to iodine, especially in its higher oxidation states (e.g., in compounds where iodine has a valence of +5 or +7). It is often used in chemistry to specify acids or salts derived from iodine.
Usage Examples
  • (A chemical compound containing iodine in the +5 oxidation state.)
  • (The characteristics related to iodine in that substance.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Iodic acid": a specific chemical compound with the formula HIO₃, distinct from "hydroiodic acid" (HI) or "periodic acid" (HIO₄).
    • Iodic acid can be reduced to iodine by sulfur dioxide. (The chemical reaction involves iodic acid losing oxygen.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Iodine (n): a chemical element (I) essential for thyroid function.
    • Iodine is a halogen found in seawater. (The element from which iodic compounds are derived.)
  • Iodide (n): a compound containing iodine in the -1 oxidation state.
    • Potassium iodide is used to protect the thyroid from radiation. (A salt of iodine.)
  • Periodic (adj): relating to the highest oxidation state of iodine (+7), as in periodic acid.
    • Periodic acid is stronger than iodic acid. (A related but distinct chemical term.)
Synonyms
  • Iodine-containing: describing a substance that includes iodine.
  • Iodous: relating to iodine in a lower oxidation state (+3), though less common.
Related Idioms