ClimateAugust 18, 2026
oxoacids
OK-so-as-idz
Definition
A specific class of chemical compounds containing an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom and at least one other element, which in this study act as key drivers in forming atmospheric particles.
Etymology
The term is a compound formed from 'oxo-' (from the Greek 'oxys' meaning sharp or acid) and 'acid' (from the Latin 'acidus'). It describes a chemical structure where an oxygen atom is attached to a central atom that also bears a hydroxyl group.
In the news
The article highlights the discovery of iodine oxoacids as a crucial mechanism in Arctic particle formation that was previously missing from climate models.
Scientists discover a natural Arctic cloud factory missing from climate models
Read the full article ↗Science Daily