Chromous

/ˈkroʊməs/ adjective

Definition

In chemistry, relating to or containing chromium in its +2 oxidation state; a compound or salt of chromium(II).

Etymology

From 'chrome' (chromium), with the '-ous' suffix indicating a lower valence state in chemistry. Used to distinguish chromous compounds from chromic ones with higher oxidation states.

Kelly Says

The -ous and -ic suffixes in chemistry are super handy shortcuts—chromous has chromium with a +2 charge while chromic has +3, so chemists can instantly know which kind of compound they're discussing!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.