Passivoitua

Passivoitua is a Finnish verb meaning to become passive or to undergo passivation. The term is used in different domains, primarily in materials science and linguistics, where it denotes distinct processes. In everyday language it can also describe a person or system shifting into a passive state.

In materials science and chemistry, passivoituminen refers to the formation of a protective, thin oxide layer on a metal surface that reduces its reactivity. This passivation layer slows down corrosion and can stabilize the metal in harsh environments. Common examples include stainless steels, aluminum, and titanium alloys, whose surfaces develop protective films that impede further oxidation. Passivointi can occur spontaneously in suitable environments or be induced by chemical treatments. If the passivation layer is damaged, the underlying metal may become re-reactive again until a new layer forms.

In linguistics and grammar, passivoituminen denotes the process by which a clause or verb phrase shifts from active to passive voice. This involves changes in the syntactic structure and, often, the marking of the patient or theme as the grammatical subject. An active sentence such as "Käyttäjä päivitti tiedoston" can be transformed into a passive form like "Tiedosto päivitettiin," illustrating the general idea of a sentence becoming passive.

Etymology and related terms: passivoida is the causative form meaning to passivate or to cause to become passive; passivointi is the noun for the process of passivation. See also passive voice and passivation in chemistry.