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Cesium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cesium

[ˈsiːziəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Cesium is a chemical element with the symbol Cs and atomic number 55. It is a soft, gold-colored alkali metal that is highly reactive and has a low melting point. Cesium is known for its use in atomic clocks, which are the most accurate timekeeping devices known to date. Due to its properties, it is also used in various industrial applications and in the field of chemistry.

Synonyms

caesium.

Examples of usage

  • The cesium clock is used in international time standards.
  • Researchers utilize cesium for its unique atomic properties.
  • Cesium is extracted from mineral sources for various applications.

Translations

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Origin of 'cesium'

The word 'cesium' originates from the Latin word 'caesius', meaning 'sky blue', due to the bright blue lines in its emission spectrum. Cesium was discovered in 1860 by German chemist Robert Bunsen and physicist Gustav Kirchhoff while they were conducting experiments with mineral waters. The element was first isolated in 1860 by the two scientists, and it represented the first element to be discovered using a spectroscope. Its discovery was significant in the development of spectroscopy as a chemical analysis technique. Since its discovery, cesium has been utilized in various fields, particularly in timekeeping, where highly precise cesium atomic clocks have revolutionized time measurement and standardization.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,315, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.