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ionization
This term describes a specific chemical and physical transformation where electrical neutrality is broken. It carries a clinical, scientific connotation, typically appearing in textbooks, laboratory reports, or technical manuals regarding plasma physics and chemistry. It suggests a state of transition triggered by an external catalyst, such as heat or radiation.
As a mass noun representing a scientific process, it is treated as uncountable. It does not refer to a single event that can be counted like a particle, but rather to the phenomenon itself. To refer to a specific instance, one must use a partitive construction such as a stage of ionization or an instance of ionization.
Meanings
The process by which an atom or a molecule acquires a negative or positive charge by gaining or losing electrons on the effect of external influence.
The ionization of gas is essential for the functioning of neon lights.
The conversion of a neutral substance into ions through the application of energy, such as radiation or electrical discharge.
High-energy ultraviolet rays cause the ionization of the upper atmosphere.
Examples
Ionization is a process.
Ionization creates ions.