What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ionise
Example
The radiation caused the air molecules to ionise. [ionise: verb]
Example
The ionisation of the gas was measured using a mass spectrometer. [ionisation: noun]
ionize
Example
The metal was ionized by the laser beam. [ionized: past tense]
Example
The ionization energy of the element was calculated using quantum mechanics. [ionization: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ionize is more common than ionise in American English, while ionise is more common in British English. However, both words are not very common in everyday language and are mostly used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ionise and ionize?
Ionise is considered more formal than ionize and is often used in scientific or technical writing. However, ionize can also be used in formal contexts, depending on the context and audience.
