Oxidative
ˈɒksɪˌdeɪtɪv
Definitions
Relating to or characterized by oxidation, the process in which a substance combines with oxygen or loses electrons.
ˈɒksɪˌdeɪtɪv
Relating to or involving oxidation.
The oxidative process caused the metal to corrode.
💡 Simply: It's like what happens when something rusts or when an apple turns brown – it's reacting with oxygen. It means that it involves a chemical reaction called oxidation.
👶 For kids: When something gets old or changes because it has oxygen on it. Like when an apple turns brown.
More Examples
Oxidative damage to DNA can contribute to aging.
Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress.
How It's Used
"Oxidative reactions are crucial in organic chemistry."
"Oxidative stress can damage cells."
"The study focused on the oxidative properties of the compound."
From 'oxidize' (to combine with oxygen) + '-ative' (forming an adjective). The word reflects the scientific process of oxidation, where a substance loses electrons.
The term 'oxidative' came into use with the development of modern chemistry, particularly with understanding of oxidation-reduction reactions in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Early usage was often associated with the study of acids and bases.
Memory tip
Think of 'oxide' to remember oxygen's role. The '-ative' ending describes a process or quality.
Practice
Word Origin
Prefix: oxid- (from oxygen)
Suffix: -ative (tending to, having the nature of)