sulfur trioxide
nounChemistry.
an irritant, corrosive, low-melting solid, SO3, obtained by the oxidation of sulfur dioxide, used as an intermediate in the manufacture of sulfuric acid.
Origin of sulfur trioxide
1First recorded in 1865–70
- Also called sulfuric anhydride.
Words Nearby sulfur trioxide
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
Scientific definitions for sulfur trioxide
sulfur trioxide
A colorless, highly reactive, corrosive compound that exists either as a liquid or as a solid. As a solid, it exists in three forms that may coexist in a given sample. Sulfur trioxide is used as an intermediate in manufacturing sulfuric acid, and in making sulfonates from organic compounds. Chemical formula: SO3.
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