Carbonized refers to the process by which a substance, usually organic matter, is reduced to carbon, often through extreme heat or charring. This transformation results in a loss of volatile components and leaves behind a black, brittle residue. The degree of carbonization varies, ranging from slightly browned to completely turned into a brittle, carbonaceous material. Carbonization is frequently observed in controlled contexts, such as the production of charcoal, and in uncontrolled situations, like a fire's aftermath, transforming the original material and changing its structural integrity.
Carbonized meaning with examples
- The ancient parchment was carbonized around the edges after the fire, rendering much of the text illegible. Fragments of carbonized wood in the archaeological dig suggested an early human presence, demonstrating evidence of cooking fires. The overcooked marshmallow was utterly carbonized, transforming from a fluffy treat to a rock-hard, black mass.
- The laboratory experiment involved carbonized cellulose, simulating the effects of high-temperature industrial processes. The unfortunate accident in the kitchen left the forgotten pizza carbonized beyond recognition, its delicious potential lost. Evidence of the ship's timbers were carbonized from the devastating lightning strike.
- Investigators found carbonized remains at the arson scene, indicating that a flammable accelerant had been used to spread the blaze. The engine block was carbonized after the extended high-speed driving, due to the lack of maintenance and eventual overheating. After the intense wildfires, the forest floor was blanketed with carbonized leaves and ash.
- The burnt steak was rendered nearly inedible, leaving a layer of carbonized crust that was difficult to remove from the pan. Through careful analysis of carbonized food residues, scientists were able to reconstruct ancient diets. The volcanic eruption's pyroclastic flow carbonized entire villages in a matter of moments.
- In the controlled environment of the kiln, the clay vessels were carbonized to a specific degree, allowing them to become properly hardened. The historian examined a carbonized manuscript, carefully hoping to decipher the ancient script within it. The farmer was frustrated by the carbonized corn crop, brought about by a hot dry summer.