Meaning & use

ionization

noun·Advanced

The process by which an atom or molecule gains or loses electrons, becoming an electrically charged ion.

See it in a sentence

Ionization of the gas allowed an electric current to pass through the tube.

Radiation can cause ionization in living tissue, which may damage cells.

A note on using this word

Ionization is a core concept in chemistry and physics, underlying phenomena from lightning to how smoke detectors work.

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