Indium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
indium
[หษชndiษm ]
Definition
chemical element
Indium is a rare, soft metal that is known for its ability to resist corrosion and oxidation. It is often used in electronics, particularly in the production of touch screens and other electronic devices. Indium has a relatively low melting point and is often alloyed with other metals to enhance their properties. It was discovered in 1863 by the German chemist Ferdinand Reich and his assistant, Heinrich Richter, while they were analyzing zinc ores. Indium is classified as post-transition metal and is found in group 13 of the periodic table.
Examples of usage
- Indium is used in electronics manufacture.
- The conductivity of indium makes it ideal for semiconductor applications.
- Indium tin oxide is a common transparent conductor.
- Research on indium has increased due to its application in solar cells.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Indium has a low melting point of just 156.6 ยฐC (313.88 ยฐF), making it easy to work with in various applications.
- It is one of the few metals that are liquid at room temperature when in its pure form, making it quite unique in the elemental family.
Technology
- Indium tin oxide (ITO) is widely used as a transparent conductive layer in touchscreen displays, solar cells, and LED lighting.
- With the increasing demand for flat-screen technologies, indium's role in electronics has made it strategically important for manufacturers.
Environment
- Although not highly toxic, indium production can lead to environmental concerns if not managed properly, due to mining and waste.
- Recycling indium from electronic waste is becoming more important as its occurrence in nature is relatively rare and finite.
Pop Culture
- Indium has found its way into science fiction stories as a fictional element, often associated with advanced technologies or space travel.
- In the world of comics, some characters have been depicted to possess powers related to rare elements, hinting at the unique attributes of indium.
Origin of 'indium'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'indium' comes from the Latin word 'indicus,' which means 'from India,' reflecting its bluish line in the spectrum.
- Indium was discovered in 1863 by the German chemist Ferdinand Reich, who identified it due to its unique yellow spectral line.
The name 'indium' comes from the Latin word 'indicus', meaning 'Indian', as well as the blue indium spectral line that was observed. The element was first isolated in 1863 by Ferdinand Reich and Heinrich Richter, who discovered it while working with zinc ore. The element was named in 1864 by Reich, in reference to the indigo blue color of its spectral lines. Initially thought to be rare, indium was later found to be more abundant than previously believed, but remains a significant industrial metal, primarily used in the electronics and display industries. Indium's use has increased significantly since the late 20th century due to the rise in demand for flat panel displays, touch screens, and other electronic applications.