dithionate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low (C2/Expert Level)Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “dithionate” mean?
A salt or ester of dithionic acid (H₂S₂O₆), containing the anion S₂O₆²⁻.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A salt or ester of dithionic acid (H₂S₂O₆), containing the anion S₂O₆²⁻.
In inorganic chemistry, a class of oxyanion compounds where two sulfur atoms are in the +5 oxidation state, linked directly to each other and surrounded by oxygen atoms. The ion is stable and resistant to oxidation and reduction under many conditions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
Purely technical with no regional connotations.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both varieties, limited to specialized scientific literature and discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “dithionate” in a Sentence
[Metal] dithionatedithionate of [metal]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dithionate” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The dithionate was precipitated as a crystalline solid.
- They studied the redox inactivity of the dithionate anion.
American English
- The protocol called for 2g of sodium dithionate.
- Dithionate is notable for the S-S bond in its structure.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in advanced chemistry textbooks and research papers on inorganic synthesis or redox chemistry.
Everyday
Never used.
Technical
Primary context. Used in lab reports, chemical nomenclature, and material safety data sheets (MSDS) for specific compounds.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dithionate”
Neutral
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dithionate”
- Misspelling as 'dithionite' (S₂O₄²⁻), which is a different ion.
- Incorrectly assuming it relates to organic 'thio-' compounds.
- Mispronouncing the first syllable as /dɪθ/ instead of /daɪθ/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Dithionate (S₂O₆²⁻) and dithionite (S₂O₄²⁻) are different anions with different structures, properties, and sulfur oxidation states (+5 vs +3).
Almost exclusively in advanced chemistry contexts, such as inorganic chemistry textbooks, research articles on sulfur chemistry, or chemical supply catalogs.
No, it is strictly a noun referring to a specific chemical ion or its salts.
It is pronounced /daɪˈθaɪəneɪt/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable rhymes with 'eye'.
A salt or ester of dithionic acid (H₂S₂O₆), containing the anion S₂O₆²⁻.
Dithionate is usually technical/scientific in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
DI (two) THIO (sulfur) ATE (a salt ending). Think: a salt with TWO sulfur atoms.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A. The term is a technical label for a specific chemical entity.
Practice
Quiz
What is the oxidation state of sulfur in the dithionate ion (S₂O₆²⁻)?