Historical Linguistics: Oxygen

Most recent answer: 10/22/2007

Q:
how as the element of oxygen named?
- mike (age 15)
mceachern high, powder springs,ga
A:

Mike -

According to , the word "oxygen" comes from the Greek words "oxy" (acid) and "genes" (forming). (As for why oxygen would be named as "acid former", I have no idea - sorry.) You can find more information on the discovery of oxygen by following the above link.

-Tamara

p.s. WebElements references as the source for a lot of its historical information. You may be able to find a copy in the library if you’re looking for more information.

(published on 10/22/2007)