ionization

noun

ion·​i·​za·​tion ˌī-ə-nə-ˈzā-shən 

plural ionizations

1

: the act or process of ionizing something : conversion of a substance into ions

Then other photons, collisions or an electric field cause ionization of the excited neutral species.

—G. Samuel Hurst and Vladilen S. Letokhov

2

: the state of being ionized

While the light flashes themselves are not harmful, the tissue ionization caused by the intruding particle near the end of its track is indeed deadly to some affected cells.

—James D. Burke

Examples of ionization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For a more hands-off approach, ionization techniques—like using copper wires to direct atmospheric energy into the ground—are said to enhance soil health and plant vitality. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 10 Oct. 2024

The dogs could also be sensing the ionization of air at pressurized rock surfaces as well as changes in electrical field or the smell of chemicals that are released. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 2 May 2024

Realizing such ionization cooling may be physicists’ biggest challenge. —Byadrian Cho, science.org, 28 Mar. 2024

The citizen scientists will reveal how a short, sudden darkness affects the way radio waves propagate in the ionosphere—and how this may alter its overall ionization. —Catherine Duncan, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

ion + -ization

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing ionization

• ionization chamber