autoionization

noun

au·​to·​ionization
: a process by which an excited atom becomes ionized and goes to a lower energy state by emitting one of two or more excited electrons that together possess energy exceeding the atom's ionization energy
especially : such a process yielding an electron having an energy equivalent to that of a photon of optical wavelength compare auger effect
autoionize
" +
verb

Word History

Etymology

aut- + ionization

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of autoionization was in 1931

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Dictionary Entries Near autoionization

Cite this Entry

“Autoionization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/autoionization. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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