chromate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical
Quick answer
What does “chromate” mean?
A salt or ester of chromic acid, containing the anion CrO₄²⁻ or the group —CrO₄.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A salt or ester of chromic acid, containing the anion CrO₄²⁻ or the group —CrO₄.
In a broader chemical context, any compound containing chromium in the +6 oxidation state, often used as pigments, corrosion inhibitors, or in electroplating. Historically, also refers to the yellowish color characteristic of many chromate salts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or spelling. Pronunciation may vary slightly (see IPA).
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both UK and US English, confined to scientific and industrial contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “chromate” in a Sentence
[Adjective] + chromatechromate + of + [Noun]chromate + [Noun] (as in 'chromate coating')Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chromate” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The aluminium was chromated to prevent corrosion.
- The process chromates the surface.
American English
- The aluminum was chromated for corrosion resistance.
- They chromate the parts in this bath.
adjective
British English
- The chromate solution turned yellow.
- Chromate pigments are restricted.
American English
- A chromate finish protects the metal.
- Chromate waste must be handled carefully.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In industrial supply chains, e.g., 'The factory phased out lead chromate due to new regulations.'
Academic
In chemistry textbooks and research papers, e.g., 'The precipitation of barium chromate confirms the presence of chromate ions.'
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Core usage: in materials science, electroplating, corrosion protection, and analytical chemistry protocols.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chromate”
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chromate”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chromate”
- Mispronouncing it as /krəʊˈmɑːt/ (stress on second syllable).
- Confusing 'chromate' (Cr⁶⁺) with 'chromite' (Cr³⁺) or 'chromium' (the element).
- Misspelling as 'chromiate'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, many chromate compounds, especially those with hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺), are toxic, carcinogenic, and environmentally hazardous, leading to strict regulations on their use and disposal.
Historically in yellow/orange/red pigments (e.g., 'chrome yellow'), in anti-corrosion treatments for metals (chromate conversion coating on aluminium or galvanised steel), and in some older wood preservatives or dyes.
Chromate (CrO₄²⁻) and dichromate (Cr₂O₇²⁻) are two related oxyanions of chromium(VI). They exist in an equilibrium that depends on the pH of the solution; dichromates are often more orange/red in colour.
Yes, in technical contexts (e.g., metal finishing), 'to chromate' means to treat a surface with a chromate conversion coating.
A salt or ester of chromic acid, containing the anion CrO₄²⁻ or the group —CrO₄.
Chromate is usually technical in register.
Chromate: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrəʊmeɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkroʊmeɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'CHROME' + '-ate' (like 'to eat'). You 'ate' something containing CHROME (chromium), forming a chromate.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A for highly technical terms. It is conceptualized as a building block or ingredient in chemical processes.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary hazard associated with many chromate compounds?