What does thiosulfate mean?
Thiosulfate refers to a class of chemical compounds that are salts or esters of thiosulfuric acid. These compounds contain the thiosulfate ion, [S2O3]2-, and are commonly used in various applications, including photography, water treatment, and as a reducing agent in chemical reactions. In photography, thiosulfates are used as a fixative to remove unexposed silver halides from film and photographic paper, stabilizing the image. The use of thiosulfates is critical in the development process, ensuring that the photographic image does not continue to degrade over time due to further exposure to light. Thiosulfates can be found naturally in some minerals and can also be synthesized for industrial and laboratory use.
nounA thiosulfate is a salt or ester of thiosulfuric acid, containing the group [S2O3]2-. Thiosulfates are commonly used in photography and as a fixative.
- A salt or ester of thiosulfuric acid
- A chemical compound used in photography and other applications
"The photographer used a thiosulfate solution to fix the film after development."
"The lab technician carefully handled the thiosulfate solution to avoid skin contact."
"Thiosulfate is often used to neutralize chlorine in swimming pools."
Countable, used when referring to multiple types or samples of thiosulfate compounds.
"The laboratory stored several thiosulfates for different experimental needs."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of thiosulfate
The term thiosulfate is derived from the Greek words 'thios', meaning sulfur, and 'sulfate', indicating its relation to sulfuric acid but with sulfur instead of oxygen. The thiosulfate ion has been known since the 19th century, and its salts have been used in various chemical processes.
Usage notes
Formal and technical contexts, often in chemistry and photography.