ionize Definition
to convert (an atom, molecule, or substance) into an ion or ions, typically by removing one or more electrons.
Using ionize: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ionize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Ultraviolet light can ionize atoms and molecules in the atmosphere.
Example
The radiation from the sun ionizes the gas in the upper atmosphere.
Example
The high-energy particles ionize the surrounding gas.
ionize Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with ionize
the amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or a positive ion
Example
The ionization energy of hydrogen is 1312 kJ/mol.
radiation that has enough energy to ionize atoms or molecules, such as X-rays, gamma rays, and cosmic rays
Example
Exposure to ionizing radiation can cause cancer and other health problems.
a device used to detect ionizing radiation by measuring the electrical charge produced by ionization in a gas
Example
An ionization chamber is often used to measure the radiation dose received by a person.
Origins of ionize
from Greek 'ion', meaning 'going', + '-ize', meaning 'to make'
Summary: ionize in Brief
'Ionize' [ˈaɪənaɪz] means to convert an atom, molecule, or substance into an ion or ions by removing one or more electrons. It is often used to describe the process of ultraviolet light or radiation from the sun ionizing atoms and molecules in the atmosphere. Other phrases include 'ionization energy,' which refers to the amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or a positive ion, and 'ionizing radiation,' which is radiation that has enough energy to ionize atoms or molecules.
