Hafnium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hafnium
[หhรฆf.ni.ษm ]
Definition
chemical element
Hafnium is a chemical element with the symbol Hf and atomic number 72. It is a fourth-period transition metal that is part of the group of elements known as the lanthanides. Hafnium is characterized by its high melting point and excellent corrosion resistance. It has applications in nuclear reactors and as a control rod material, owing to its ability to absorb neutrons. Additionally, hafnium is used in various high-temperature applications, including aerospace and chip manufacturing.
Examples of usage
- Hafnium is used in nuclear reactors.
- The melting point of hafnium is exceptionally high.
- Hafnium alloys are utilized in aerospace engineering.
- The semiconductor industry relies on hafnium oxide.
- Researchers are studying hafnium for potential applications in quantum computing.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Hafnium has a high melting point, which makes it useful for high-temperature applications like rocket engines.
- It is often used in nuclear reactors due to its ability to absorb neutrons.
- The metal is found together with zirconium in minerals, making it challenging to extract.
Technology
- In electronics, hafnium is important for creating materials in computer chips to make them faster and more efficient.
- It is also used in the production of superconductors, which can carry electricity without losing energy.
Cultural Impact
- Despite being rare, hafnium plays a crucial role in modern technological advancements across various industries.
- Its unique properties have made it a topic in numerous scientific studies, showcasing its importance in material science.
Industry
- Due to its resistance to corrosion, hafnium is used in aerospace applications for parts that need to withstand harsh conditions.
- The military also uses hafnium in certain applications for producing nuclear devices and other advanced technology.
Origin of 'hafnium'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'hafnium' comes from the Latin word for Copenhagen, 'Hafnia', because it was discovered by scientists in Denmark.
- It was isolated in 1923, making it a relatively new addition to the periodic table of elements.
The name 'hafnium' is derived from 'Hafnia', the Latin name for Copenhagen, where it was discovered in 1923 by Danish chemist Dirk Coster and his colleague Georg von Hevesy. The element was identified while they were investigating the properties of zirconium-containing minerals. Hafnium's discovery came as a result of studies on the zirconium isotopes, which most closely resemble hafnium's properties. The element is often found in conjunction with zirconium in nature, due to their similar chemical characteristics, which made its separation from zirconium crucial for identification. Hafnium was formally recognized as an element on its own and has since become significant in various fields, particularly in nuclear engineering and electronics. Its attributes and attributes were studied extensively, leading to its acceptance as a critical material in modern technology.