Manganese Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manganese

[หˆmรฆล‹ษกษ™niหz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Manganese is a chemical element with the symbol Mn and atomic number 25. It is a hard, brittle metal that is often used in steel production to improve hardness, stiffness, and strength.

Synonyms

Mn, manganese dioxide.

Examples of usage

  • Manganese is essential for the production of steel.
  • Deficiencies of manganese in plants can lead to poor growth.
  • Manganese plays a key role in various chemical reactions.
Context #2 | Noun

nutrient

Manganese is an essential trace mineral that is necessary for the proper functioning of various enzymes in the body. It helps in the formation of bone and connective tissue.

Synonyms

manganese gluconate, manganese sulfate.

Examples of usage

  • Manganese supplements can help improve bone health.
  • A diet rich in manganese is important for overall wellness.
  • Manganese is found in foods like nuts and leafy greens.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Industrial Uses

  • Manganese is crucial for steel production, helping it be stronger and more durable.
  • It's also used in batteries and fertilizers, showcasing its versatility in everyday products.

Health

  • This element plays a role in bone formation, helping keep our skeletons strong.
  • Deficiency in manganese can lead to health issues like skeletal deformities and impaired growth in children.

Environmental Impact

  • Mining for manganese can affect local ecosystems, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.
  • Natural sources like certain plants store manganese, indicating its role in ecological balance.

Pop Culture

  • Manganese has made appearances in scientific documentaries highlighting its significance in our everyday lives.
  • Some art pieces use manganese pigments, showcasing its role beyond science in creativity.

Origin of 'manganese'

Main points about word origin

  • The name comes from the Latin word 'manganesum', which means 'magnet', because it was thought to have magnetic properties.
  • In the Middle Ages, the term was often confused with glass-making materials, showing how history mixes together science and art.

The name 'manganese' comes from the Latin 'manganum', which means 'magnet' and is derived from the Greek word 'manganes' meaning 'magnetic'. The element was first identified in the 18th century by Swedish chemist Johan Gottlieb Gahn. Initially, it was confused with barium and was not recognized as a distinct element. Over the years, manganese has been increasingly studied due to its significant role in industrial applications and human nutrition. Its ability to improve the properties of steel and its presence in various biological processes have made it a crucial element in both metallurgy and biochemistry.


Word Frequency Rank

At #6,884 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.