Hexavalenttinen

Hexavalenttinen is a Finnish term used to describe substances that are hexavalent, meaning the central element in the compound has an oxidation state of +6. In practice, the word is most often applied to hexavalent chromium compounds (chromium in the oxidation state +6), but it can also refer to other +6 species such as certain molybdenum or tungsten compounds.

In chemistry, hexavalence denotes the maximum common oxidation state of a given element in its compounds. Hexavalent chromium compounds include chromium trioxide (CrO3) and dichromates (such as K2Cr2O7 and Na2Cr2O7). These compounds are typically strong oxidizing agents and are often water-soluble. They are used in industrial processes such as metal finishing, pigment production, wood treatment, and some chemical syntheses. Because of their high oxidation state and reactivity, hexavalent compounds can be more toxic and hazardous than their lower-oxidation-state counterparts.

Health and safety considerations are central to discussions of hexavalenttinen. Inhalation of hexavalent chromium compounds is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory problems; exposure can also irritate skin and eyes. Due to these hazards, many jurisdictions regulate or restrict the use of hexavalent chromium compounds, requiring controls to limit occupational exposure and, in some cases, limiting or banning their use in consumer products. Environmental concerns include the potential mobility of Cr(VI) in water and soil, and the tendency for Cr(VI) to be reduced to the less-toxic Cr(III) under certain conditions.

In summary, hexavalenttinen emphasizes chemical species in the +6 oxidation state, with chromium(VI) compounds being the most prominent and tightly regulated example due to their toxicity and industrial utility.