sulfur dioxide

noun

: a heavy pungent toxic gas SO₂ that is easily condensed to a colorless liquid, is used especially in making sulfuric acid, in bleaching, as a preservative, and as a refrigerant, and is a major air pollutant especially in industrial areas

Examples of sulfur dioxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), asbestos and heavy metals are a few of the toxins being released into the atmosphere. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 18 Jan. 2025

The release of volcanic gases, especially sulfur dioxide, poses significant health risks, creating a toxic haze known as vog that can drift far downwind. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 3 Jan. 2025

But using sulfur dioxide can also be considered a pollutant that might irritate people’s lungs, lead to acid rain, and potentially rip open the Antarctic ozone hole. —Justine Calma, The Verge, 9 Dec. 2024

Plus, scientists are still studying the effects of events like the January 2022 Tonga volcanic eruption, which introduced vast quantities of water vapor and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. —Stefanie Waldek, Space.com, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sulfur dioxide

noun

: a heavy strong-smelling gas that is used especially in making sulfuric acid, in bleaching, in preserving things, and as a refrigerant and that is a major substance in air pollution especially in industrial areas

Medical Definition

sulfur dioxide

noun

: a heavy pungent toxic gas SO₂ that is easily condensed to a colorless liquid, is used especially in making sulfuric acid, in bleaching, as a preservative, and as a refrigerant, and is a major air pollutant especially in industrial areas