The word "Metatungstate" is spelled as /ˌmɛtəˈtʌŋsteɪt/. The first syllable "met-" indicates that this is a compound word derived from "meta-" which means beyond or after. The second syllable "-a-tung-state" refers to a compound of oxygen and the metal tungsten. The IPA phonetic transcription of each syllable represents the precise pronunciation of each vowel and consonant sound in the word. Thus, the correct spelling and pronunciation of "Metatungstate" is important for accurate communication in scientific contexts.
Metatungstate is a chemical compound that belongs to the group of inorganic compounds known as polyoxometalates. It is derived from tungsten, a transition metal, and is characterized by its unique structure and properties. The compound is composed of tungsten oxide ions, which are coordinated with oxygen atoms to form a highly symmetrical, polyhedral cluster.
Metatungstate is commonly used as a catalyst in various chemical reactions due to its ability to lower the activation energy required for a reaction to occur. It exhibits strong acidity and can efficiently catalyze oxidation and reduction reactions, making it a versatile compound for industrial applications.
In addition to its catalytic properties, metatungstate also finds applications in the field of materials science. Its unique structure and high surface area make it useful as a template for the synthesis of nanomaterials and for the fabrication of thin films. It can also be used as a precursor for the synthesis of other tungsten-containing compounds.
From a chemical perspective, metatungstate is a polyatomic anion with the formula [WO4]2-, which consists of four oxygen atoms surrounding a central tungsten atom. This anion can form salts with various cations, such as sodium or potassium, resulting in compounds known as metatungstate salts.
Overall, metatungstate is an important compound in various fields due to its catalytic activity, structural properties, and versatility in synthesis. Its unique characteristics make it a valuable tool for researchers and engineers seeking to develop innovative materials and optimize chemical processes.
The word "Metatungstate" has its etymology derived from the combination of two parts: "meta" and "tungstate".
1. "Meta": In Greek, "meta" (μετά) means "after" or "beyond". In scientific and technical terms, it is often used to indicate a change, transformation, or a subsequent stage. For example, in chemistry, it is used to describe a compound that has undergone a rearrangement or change in structure.
2. "Tungstate": The term "tungstate" refers to a compound containing the tungsten element. It is derived from the element's symbol "W", which stands for "Wolfram" in German. The word "wolfram" itself comes from Middle High German "wolfrām", which means "wolf's foam" referring to the mineral wolframite, an important tungsten ore.