Osmium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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osmium
[หษz.mi.ษm ]
Definition
chemical element
Osmium is a chemical element with the symbol Os and atomic number 76. It is a hard, brittle metal that is bluish-white in color. Osmium is the densest naturally occurring element, and it is a member of the platinum group of metals. It is primarily used in applications that require extreme durability and wear resistance, such as fountain pen nibs, electrical contacts, and in the manufacturing of hard alloys.
Synonyms
element 76, osmium tetroxide.
Examples of usage
- The fountain pen was made of osmium for durability.
- Osmium tetroxide is used in microscopy for staining.
- The alloy contains osmium to enhance its hardness.
Translations
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Origin of 'osmium'
The name 'osmium' is derived from the Greek word 'osme', meaning 'smell' or 'odor', referring to the unpleasant odor of its tetroxide compound. The element was discovered in 1803 by the British chemist Smithson Tennant, who found it in residues left after dissolving platinum ores in aqua regia (a mixture of hydrochloric and nitric acids). Its distinguishing properties include its density and exceptional hardness, making it a valuable material for various industrial applications. Over the years, osmiun's role in technology has expanded, particularly in the field of electronics and specialized equipment.