boric oxide: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 / SpecialisedTechnical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “boric oxide” mean?
A white, glassy solid compound composed of boron and oxygen (B₂O₃).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A white, glassy solid compound composed of boron and oxygen (B₂O₃).
The anhydride of boric acid; a fundamental industrial and laboratory chemical used primarily in the production of borosilicate glass (like Pyrex), glass fibres, and as a flux in metallurgy and ceramic glazes.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or spelling differences. Pronunciation may vary slightly.
Connotations
Purely technical and neutral in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally rare outside specialised contexts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “boric oxide” in a Sentence
Boric oxide is used in XX contains Y% boric oxideThe synthesis of boric oxide involves ZVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “boric oxide” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The boric-oxide-based glaze fired beautifully.
American English
- The boric-oxide-based glass resisted thermal shock.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in procurement, manufacturing specifications, and trade of glass, ceramics, or chemical supplies.
Academic
Standard term in chemistry, materials science, and geology textbooks and research papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in formulations for glassmaking, enamel production, and metallurgical fluxes.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “boric oxide”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “boric oxide”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “boric oxide”
- Mispronouncing 'boric' as /ˈbɒr.ɪk/ (like 'bore') instead of /ˈbɔː.rɪk/.
- Confusing it with the more common 'boric acid'.
- Using 'boron oxide' in precise technical writing where 'boric oxide' or 'B₂O₃' is required.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Borax is a hydrated sodium borate mineral (Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O). Boric oxide (B₂O₃) is the anhydride derived from boric acid and is a different chemical compound.
In powder form, it can be an irritant to eyes and respiratory system. It is generally of low to moderate toxicity but requires careful handling in an industrial setting, unlike its more toxic boron hydride cousins.
It significantly reduces the thermal expansion coefficient of the glass, making it resistant to sudden temperature changes (thermal shock). It also lowers the melting temperature of the batch.
Pure, crystalline boric oxide is rare in nature. It is usually produced industrially by dehydrating boric acid. Some volcanic vapours can contain it.
A white, glassy solid compound composed of boron and oxygen (B₂O₃).
Boric oxide is usually technical / scientific in register.
Boric oxide: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbɔː.rɪk ˈɒk.saɪd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbɔːr.ɪk ˈɑːk.saɪd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Boric' like 'boron', and 'oxide' means combined with oxygen. It's the oxide of boron.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary industrial use of boric oxide?