sulfonated
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //sʌlˈfoʊneɪtɪd//
KK: /sʌlfoʊˈneɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Changed by adding a specific chemical group that contains sulfur and oxygen, often used in chemistry and industry.
Example
The sulfonated compound is used in various cleaning products for its effectiveness.
Conversation
Hey, have you heard about the new sulfonated detergents on the market?
Yeah, I read they work really well for tough stains.
I’m curious if they’re better than regular ones since they’re sulfonated.
I guess we’ll have to try them out to see how effective they really are!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sulfonic
sulfated
modified
Antonyms
untreated
natural
unmodified
verb
Definition
To treat a compound with sulfuric acid or a sulfonic acid, introducing a sulfonate group into the compound.
Example
The chemist sulfonated the organic compound to enhance its solubility in water.
Tense Forms
Past: sulfonated
Past Participle: sulfonated
Conversation
Did you know they sulfonated the new cleaning product?
Really? I heard that makes it more effective against stains.
Yeah, I was surprised to learn that it changes the chemistry of the solution.
Root Explanation
Sulfonated → It is formed from "sulfon-" (derived from the word "sulfonic" which comes from "sulfur" and the suffix "-onic" indicating a chemical compound) and "-ated" (meaning to treat or combine with). The word "sulfonated" refers to a compound that has been treated with a sulfonic group, typically to enhance its properties in chemical applications.
Memory Tip
Think of 'sulfon-' as relating to sulfur, and '-ated' as meaning treated. This helps you remember that 'sulfonated' means a substance that has been treated with a sulfonic group.
Visually Confused Words
sulphonated
sulphonate
pulmonated