Oxide

An oxide is a chemical compound formed when oxygen reacts with another element. Think of it as oxygen teaming up with metals like iron to create rust or with non-metals like carbon to form carbon dioxide. Oxides are common in nature and industry, often affecting materials' properties—like making metals wear down or creating minerals. They play vital roles in processes such as respiration in living organisms and the formation of Earth's crust. Essentially, oxides are the products of oxygen combining with other elements, influencing everything from environmental chemistry to manufacturing.