Barium oxide is a chemical compound that is widely used in various industries, including ceramics, glass, and electronics. It has a range of properties that make it useful in these applications, including its high melting point, chemical stability, and ability to conduct electricity. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of barium oxide, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and use in example sentences.
Definitions
Barium oxide is a compound made up of the elements barium and oxygen, with the chemical formula BaO. It is a white or yellowish solid that is highly reactive and can react with water to form barium hydroxide. Barium oxide is used in the production of glass, ceramics, and other materials, as well as in the manufacture of certain chemicals and as a catalyst in some industrial processes.
Origin
Barium oxide was first discovered in the early 19th century by Sir Humphry Davy, a British chemist. He obtained the compound by heating barium carbonate, a naturally occurring mineral, with charcoal. Today, barium oxide is primarily produced by heating barium carbonate or barium sulfate with coke or other reducing agents.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, barium oxide is defined as “a white or yellowish solid compound of barium and oxygen, used in the production of glass, ceramics, and other materials.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “a white or yellowish powder that is used especially in making glass and ceramics.”
Associations
Barium oxide is often associated with the production of glass and ceramics, as well as with the manufacture of certain chemicals and as a catalyst in some industrial processes. It is also associated with potential health risks, as exposure to barium compounds can cause respiratory problems, gastrointestinal issues, and other health problems.
Synonyms
Synonyms of barium oxide include baria, barium monoxide, and baryta.
Antonyms
Antonyms of barium oxide include barium sulfate, barium carbonate, and barium chloride.
The same root words
There are no significant root words related to barium oxide.
Example Sentences
- The production of glass requires the use of barium oxide as a key ingredient.
- Barium oxide is often used as a catalyst in the manufacture of certain chemicals.
- Exposure to barium oxide can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
- The chemical formula for barium oxide is BaO.
- The high melting point and chemical stability of barium oxide make it useful in a variety of industrial applications.