noun
- salts of perchloric acid, containing the ClO4- ion, used in explosives, rocket fuel, and fireworks
Usage: chemistry; plural form
Examples
- Perchlorates are commonly used as oxidizers in solid rocket propellants.
- The factory produces ammonium perchlorates for the aerospace industry.
- Environmental scientists detected perchlorates in the groundwater near the military base.
- Fireworks manufacturers use perchlorates to create bright colors and loud explosions.
- The cleanup crew had to handle the perchlorates with extreme caution due to their explosive nature.
- Perchlorates can contaminate drinking water supplies if not properly contained.