bichromate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (C2)Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “bichromate” mean?
A salt containing the divalent anion Cr₂O₇²⁻, derived from dichromic acid (H₂Cr₂O₇), also commonly called dichromate. An oxidizing agent containing chromium in the +6 oxidation state.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A salt containing the divalent anion Cr₂O₇²⁻, derived from dichromic acid (H₂Cr₂O₇), also commonly called dichromate. An oxidizing agent containing chromium in the +6 oxidation state.
Primarily refers to specific chemical compounds used in industrial processes, such as potassium bichromate or sodium bichromate. Historically used in photography, dyeing, wood treatment, and as a laboratory reagent.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both 'bichromate' and 'dichromate' are understood and used in both varieties. There is no strong regional preference, though 'dichromate' is increasingly dominant in formal scientific writing globally.
Connotations
'Bichromate' may carry a slightly more historical or industrial flavour.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. In technical contexts, 'dichromate' is more common in modern academic writing in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “bichromate” in a Sentence
[Material] + is treated/immersed in + [bichromate solution]to oxidise X with [bichromate]the reduction of [bichromate] to chromiteVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bichromate” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The wood was bichromated to improve its durability.
American English
- The sample was bichromated prior to analysis.
adjective
British English
- The bichromate solution has a characteristic orange colour.
American English
- They followed the bichromate process for the experiment.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in safety data sheets (SDS) or chemical supply catalogues.
Academic
Used in chemistry, materials science, and history of photography/textiles. The term 'dichromate' is more prevalent.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The primary domain. Used in industrial chemistry, electroplating, historical photographic processes (gum bichromate printing), and laboratory procedures.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bichromate”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bichromate”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bichromate”
- Misspelling as 'bicromate' (dropping the 'h').
- Confusing it with 'chromate' (CrO₄²⁻), which has a different structure and reactivity.
- Using 'bichromate' in non-chemical contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in modern chemical terminology, they are synonyms. 'Dichromate' is the more systematic term, while 'bichromate' is an older, still-recognised name.
They are strong oxidizing agents used historically in dyeing, photography, wood preservation, and metal cleaning. They are now mainly used in laboratories and some niche industrial processes, with use declining due to toxicity.
It is acceptable, but 'dichromate' is the preferred term in contemporary scientific literature to align with IUPAC nomenclature conventions.
Solutions of bichromate salts (e.g., potassium or sodium) typically have a bright orange colour.
A salt containing the divalent anion Cr₂O₇²⁻, derived from dichromic acid (H₂Cr₂O₇), also commonly called dichromate. An oxidizing agent containing chromium in the +6 oxidation state.
Bichromate: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbaɪˈkrəʊmeɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbaɪˈkroʊmeɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms exist for this technical term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'BI' (two) + 'CHROMATE' (chromium-oxygen compound) = a compound with TWO chromium atoms in its core ion (Cr₂O₇²⁻).
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A for this highly technical term.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern synonym for 'bichromate'?