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Calcium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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calcium

[ˈkælsiəm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mineral

A chemical element with the symbol Ca and atomic number 20. It is essential for living organisms, especially in cell structure, muscle function, and bone formation.

Synonyms

Ca.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
calcium

Use this term in everyday conversation or general contexts when talking about the mineral found in foods, supplements, or human and animal bones.

  • Milk is a good source of calcium.
  • Doctors recommend calcium supplements for older adults.
Ca

This abbreviation is mainly used in scientific, medical, or educational contexts, especially in chemical formulas or discussions.

  • The chemical symbol for calcium is Ca.
  • In chemistry class, we learned that Ca has an atomic number of 20.

Examples of usage

  • Calcium is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
  • Milk is a good source of calcium.
  • Calcium deficiency can lead to weak bones and osteoporosis.
Context #2 | Noun

chemistry

A soft gray alkaline earth metal, used as a reducing agent in the extraction of other metals.

Synonyms

element, metal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
calcium

Used primarily in biological and health-related contexts to refer to the essential mineral needed for bone health and other bodily functions.

  • Calcium is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
  • A calcium supplement can help those who don't get enough from their diet.
metal

Used to describe the physical and chemical properties of calcium among other metals, especially in chemistry and materials science.

  • Calcium is a soft, gray metal that is often used in alloys.
  • Unlike some metals, calcium reacts quickly with water.
element

Used in scientific contexts to refer to a basic substance that consists of only one type of atom, of which calcium is an example.

  • Calcium is an element with atomic number 20 on the periodic table.
  • Oxygen is another essential element for life.

Examples of usage

  • Calcium is commonly used in the production of steel.
  • It reacts with water to form calcium hydroxide.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Health Science

  • Adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health, especially in children and during aging, to prevent fractures.
  • It plays a crucial role in muscle function, helping muscles contract and relax properly.
  • Calcium deficiency can lead to conditions like osteoporosis, where bones become weak and brittle.

Industry

  • Calcium compounds are widely used in cement and as a key ingredient in various construction materials.
  • In the food industry, it acts as a food additive and is commonly found in fortified products like certain juices and cereals.

Environmental Science

  • Calcium carbonate, a major form of calcium, helps in balancing pH levels in oceans, affecting marine life and ecosystems.
  • It serves as a natural buffer in soils, assisting plants in growing and thriving.

Daily Life

  • Popular dietary sources of calcium include dairy products like milk and cheese, leafy greens like spinach, and fortified foods.
  • It's important for everyone's diet, but especially for growing children and pregnant women to support development.

Origin of 'calcium'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'calcium' comes from the Latin word 'calx', meaning 'lime', which relates to the mineral found in limestone.
  • It was first isolated in 1808 by British chemist Sir Humphry Davy, highlighting its discovery in the early 19th century.

The word 'calcium' originates from the Latin word 'calx' meaning 'lime'. It was first isolated by Sir Humphry Davy in 1808. Calcium plays a crucial role in various biological processes and is one of the most abundant minerals in the human body.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,497, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.