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Cadmium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cadmium

[ˈkæd.mi.əm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Cadmium is a chemical element with the symbol Cd and atomic number 48. It is a soft, bluish-white metal that is chemically similar to zinc and mercury. Cadmium is primarily used in batteries, pigments, and coatings. Due to its toxicity, cadmium must be handled with care, and exposure can lead to various health issues and environmental concerns.

Synonyms

CD, chemical element, toxic metal.

Examples of usage

  • The battery industry often uses cadmium for rechargeable batteries.
  • Cadmium pigments provide vibrant colors in paints.
  • Proper disposal of cadmium-containing waste is crucial to prevent pollution.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Environmental Impact

  • Cadmium is found in certain fertilizers and can accumulate in plants, potentially entering the food chain and harming wildlife.
  • Improper disposal of batteries containing cadmium can lead to soil and water pollution, posing health risks to humans and animals.

Industrial Uses

  • Commonly used in rechargeable nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, which power many household devices.
  • It is also utilized in pigments for paints, plastics, and glasses, providing bright and vibrant colors.

Health Risks

  • Exposure to high levels can cause kidney damage and bone disease, making it important to manage safely.
  • Inhalation of cadmium dust can lead to chronic lung disease and other respiratory issues.

Pop Culture

  • Cadmium is often mentioned in discussions about toxic substances in environmental documentaries, emphasizing the need for cleaner technology.
  • The term 'cadmium yellow' refers to a pigment used by famous artists, showing its role in fine art.

Origin of 'cadmium'

Main points about word origin

  • The name comes from the Latin word 'cadmia', meaning calamine or zinc oxide, highlighting its discovery in minerals.
  • It was discovered in the year 1817 by the chemist Friedrich Strohmeyer in Germany.

The term 'cadmium' is derived from the Latin word 'cadmia,' meaning 'calamine,' a zinc ore that was known in antiquity. Cadmium was discovered in 1817 by Swedish chemist Friedrich Stromeyer while he was experimenting with zinc and its compounds. Initially, cadmium's properties and potential applications were largely unrecognized, but by the late 19th century, its use in batteries and pigments began to rise. As industrial applications expanded, concerns over cadmium's toxicity and environmental impact grew, leading to regulations governing its use. This shift reflected an increased awareness of hazardous materials and the importance of health and safety in industrial practices.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,647, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.