Antimony: meaning, definitions and examples
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antimony
[ ˈæntɪˌmoʊni ]
chemical element
Antimony is a chemical element with the symbol Sb and atomic number 51. It is a metalloid that has been known since ancient times and is primarily used in the production of alloys. Antimony is often added to lead to increase its hardness and mechanical properties. The element is also found in various minerals and has some applications in flame retardants and electronics. Despite its usefulness, antimony can be toxic and poses environmental risks.
Synonyms
Sb, stibium.
Examples of usage
- Antimony is used in the manufacturing of batteries.
- The alloy was strengthened with antimony.
- Antimony trioxide is commonly used as a flame retardant.
- He studied the properties of antimony for his project.
Translations
Translations of the word "antimony" in other languages:
🇵🇹 antimônio
🇮🇳 अंटिमनी
🇩🇪 Antimon
🇮🇩 antimon
🇺🇦 антимон
🇵🇱 antymon
🇯🇵 アンチモン
🇫🇷 antimoine
🇪🇸 antimonio
🇹🇷 antimon
🇰🇷 안티몬
🇸🇦 الأنتيمون
🇨🇿 antimon
🇸🇰 antimon
🇨🇳 锑
🇸🇮 antimon
🇮🇸 antímon
🇰🇿 антимон
🇬🇪 ანტიმონი
🇦🇿 antimon
🇲🇽 antimonio
Etymology
The term 'antimony' comes from the Medieval Latin word 'antimonium', which is thought to be derived from the Greek word 'anti' meaning 'against' and 'monos' meaning 'alone' or 'single'. This likely references the element's isolated nature in its natural state, as it rarely occurs in its pure form. The Romans also referred to antimony as 'stibium', which is the source of the symbol 'Sb'. Antimony has been known since ancient times with notable references in alchemy and traditional medicine. The element has been used since the times of the Egyptians for cosmetics and medicines. The metalloid's unique properties were further explored during the Middle Ages, leading to various applications in metallurgy and chemical processes.