dioxide

UK: daɪˈɒksaɪd | US: daɪˈɑːksaɪd

Definition
  1. n. a compound containing two oxygen atoms bonded to another element or group.

Structure
di <two>oxide <oxygen compound>
Etymology

The word "dioxide" combines the Greek prefix "di-" (meaning "two") with "oxide," derived from the French "oxygène" (oxygen) and the Greek "-eidēs" (resembling). The term reflects its chemical composition—a molecule with two oxygen atoms attached to another element (e.g., carbon dioxide, CO₂). The prefix "di-" is widely used in scientific terminology to denote duality, while "oxide" anchors the word in chemistry.

Examples
  1. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.

  2. Plants absorb dioxide during photosynthesis and release oxygen.

  3. The lab technician measured the dioxide levels in the air sample.

  4. Silicon dioxide is a common component of sand and quartz.

  5. High concentrations of sulfur dioxide can cause respiratory problems.