Calcine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🔥
calcine
[ˈkæl.saɪn ]
Definition
chemical process
To calcine is to heat a substance to a high temperature in the absence of air or oxygen, typically for the purpose of removing volatile substances, oxidizing certain components, or converting a material into an oxide. This process is commonly used in metallurgy and mineral processing.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Calcine the ore to extract metals.
- The limestone was calcined to produce quicklime.
- They calcined the samples to analyze their chemical composition.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Calcination is a key step in the production of materials like lime, which is used in construction and agriculture.
- The process often involves the thermal decomposition of carbonates and sulfates, releasing gases like CO2.
- Calcining is critical in the production of cement, where limestone is heated to create a mixture that forms strong concrete.
Industrial Applications
- In the production of metals, calcination is used to remove impurities from ores before further processing.
- It plays a vital role in the petrochemical industry, where calcination can modify catalysts for better performance.
- Certain types of ceramics undergo calcination to enhance their durability and thermal stability.
Art and Culture
- In the art world, the calcination of certain pigments can alter their color and chemical properties, making them more durable.
- Some traditional pottery techniques involve calcining clay to create stronger ceramic bodies that can withstand firing.
- Artists sometimes use calcination as a metaphor for personal transformation, akin to turning raw experiences into something refined.
Health and Safety
- Calcining processes can release toxic fumes; hence, safety measures are crucial in industrial settings.
- Proper ventilation and protective gear are vital when working with materials that undergo calcination to prevent inhalation of harmful substances.
- The high temperatures involved in calcination also pose fire hazards, highlighting the need for careful handling.
Origin of 'calcine'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'calcine' comes from the Latin word 'calcinare,' which means 'to burn lime.'
- Historically, the use of 'calcine' pertains to the treatment of metals and minerals, especially in the context of refining processes.
- The word was popularized in the 16th century, particularly in alchemical practices that involved the transformation of raw materials.
The term 'calcine' originates from the Latin word 'calcinare', which means 'to heat' or 'to make lime', derived from 'calx', meaning 'lime' or 'calcium oxide'. This term evolved through Middle French before settling into modern English usage. The use of calcination dates back to ancient practices in metallurgy, where heating ores in the absence of air helped to purify metals. Over time, the process has been refined and is now a crucial step in many industrial processes, particularly in ceramics, glassmaking, and the production of various chemical compounds. The development of the term reflects the historical significance of heat treatment in material science.