Definition

Having a tendency to give away electrons and form positive ions in chemical reactions.

Example

Sodium is an electropositive element that easily loses an electron to form a positive ion.

Conversation

Did you know that sodium is considered electropositive?

Really? I didn't know that about sodium.

Yeah, it means it tends to lose electrons easily.

That makes sense! So, it plays an important role in chemical reactions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Electropositive is formed from "electro-" (from Greek "ēlektron", meaning amber or electricity) and "positive" (from Latin "positivus", meaning placed or affirmed). The term describes an element that has a tendency to lose electrons and thus has a positive charge.

Memory Tip

Think of 'electricity' ('electro-') and 'affirmative' ('positive') to remember that 'electropositive' refers to elements that tend to lose electrons and carry a positive charge.

Visually Confused Words