DODECABORATE Meaning and
Definition
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"Dodecaborate" is a term that refers to a compound or an ion containing a dodecaborate cluster. The term is derived from the combination of two words: "dodeca," meaning twelve, and "borate," referring to a compound containing the element boron.
A dodecaborate cluster is a highly symmetrical arrangement of twelve boron atoms with accompanying ligands or other elements attached to them. It is commonly represented as [B12X12]n-, where X represents a ligand or another atom attached to the boron atoms, and n denotes the charge of the cluster.
Dodecaborates can exist in various forms, each having distinct physical and chemical properties. These compounds exhibit structural stability and possess unique characteristics, such as high thermal stability and resistance to acids and bases. Due to their properties, dodecaborates find applications in fields like materials science, catalysis, and medicine.
Dodecaborates have been extensively studied in the field of boron chemistry, which explores the properties and reactivity of compounds containing boron. Scientists have developed several synthetic methods to prepare dodecaborates, allowing for their utilization in various applications. Moreover, the understanding of dodecaborates and their behavior has been crucial in advancing our knowledge of boron-containing compounds, enabling the development of new technologies and materials.
Etymology of DODECABORATE
The word "dodecaborate" is derived from the combination of two elements: "dodeca-" and "-borate".
The prefix "dodeca-" is derived from the Greek word "dodeka", meaning "twelve". It is often used in scientific and technical terms to denote the number twelve. For example, "dodecahedron" refers to a polyhedron with twelve faces.
The suffix "-borate" is derived from the element "boron", which is a chemical element with the symbol B and atomic number 5. It forms various compounds, known as borates, by combining with other elements.
Therefore, the word "dodecaborate" combines the concept of twelve (dodeca-) with the element boron ("-borate"), indicating a compound or salt that contains twelve boron atoms.
