oxidized

Definition

Adjective:
- Having undergone a chemical reaction with oxygen, resulting in a loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state. This process often involves the addition of oxygen atoms or the removal of hydrogen atoms from a substance.

Usage

The adjective oxidized is used to describe a substance that has been altered by oxidation. It is commonly used in chemistry, materials science, geology, and everyday contexts (e.g., describing tarnished metal). * It typically follows a linking verb like is, was, becomes, or appears (e.g., "The metal is oxidized"). * It can also come before a noun (e.g., "oxidized cholesterol").

Examples

The surface of the old copper roof was heavily oxidized, giving it a distinctive green patina.
In this reaction, the oxidized form of the metal ion is more stable.
Oxidized fats can contribute to an unpleasant taste in food.
The scientist studied the oxidized layer on the ancient artifact.

Advanced Usage

"to become oxidized": This phrasal construction emphasizes the process of oxidation happening over time.
- Iron will rapidly become oxidized in the presence of water and air, forming rust.
"readily oxidized": Describes a substance that undergoes oxidation easily.
- Sodium is a highly reactive metal that is readily oxidized.

Variants and Related Words

Oxidize (verb): To cause to undergo oxidation; to combine with oxygen.
- Certain enzymes in the apple cause it to oxidize and turn brown when cut.
Oxidation (noun): The process or result of oxidizing.
- The corrosion was caused by the oxidation of the iron.
Oxidizing agent (noun): A substance that causes oxidation by accepting electrons.
- Oxygen is a common oxidizing agent.
Oxide (noun): A chemical compound of oxygen with another element.
- Rust is primarily iron oxide.