Cr Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Cr
[kroʊmiəm ]
Definition
chemical element
Cr is the chemical symbol for chromium, a transition metal known for its high corrosion resistance and shiny appearance. It is commonly used in stainless steel manufacturing and for plating purposes.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Chromium is used to create stainless steel.
- The car was plated with chromium to prevent rust.
- Chromium compounds can be toxic and must be handled with care.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Industrial Uses
- Chromium is primarily used to produce stainless steel, giving it a shiny finish and resistance to corrosion.
- It is also critical in making certain pigments, especially greens and blues, used in paints and coatings.
- Some industries use chromium to enhance the durability and hardness of metal surfaces through the process of plating.
Environmental Impact
- Chromium in its hexavalent form can be harmful to health, leading to regulations on its use and disposal.
- There are ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate the environmental effects of chromium pollution, especially in industrial areas.
Biological Role
- Traces of chromium are essential for human health as they help in the metabolism of sugars and fats.
- However, too much or too little chromium can lead to health issues, showcasing the importance of balance.
Pop Culture
- In some video games, chromium is often portrayed as a rare and powerful resource due to its strength.
- Movies featuring futuristic themes often include chromium as a symbol of advanced technology because of its metallic properties.
Origin of 'Cr'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'chromium' comes from the Greek word 'chroma,' meaning color, because many of its compounds are brightly colored.
- The symbol 'Cr' was designated for chromium when the modern system of chemical symbols was established in the 19th century.
The symbol 'Cr' comes from the Greek word 'chroma,' meaning color, which reflects the various colored compounds that chromium can produce. Discovered in 1797 by French chemist Louis-Nicolas Vauquelin, chromium was initially used for its colorful pigments in paints and dyes. Its properties as a strong metal became recognized later, leading to its widespread application in metallurgy and manufacturing, particularly in creating alloys and as a protective coating against corrosion. Over the years, industrial applications of chromium have expanded, but environmental and health concerns regarding its compounds have led to regulations in many industries.