Samarium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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samarium
[səˈmɛəriəm ]
Definition
chemical element
Samarium is a chemical element with the symbol Sm and atomic number 62. It is a member of the lanthanide series in the periodic table. Samarium is a silvery-white metal that is found in nature primarily in the mineral bastnäsite. It has the remarkable property of being able to absorb neutrons, which makes it useful in certain nuclear reactors. Additionally, samarium compounds are employed in various applications such as magnets, phosphors, and lasers.
Synonyms
Sm, chemical element, lanthanide.
Examples of usage
- Samarium is used in the production of strong permanent magnets.
- The process of extracting samarium from bastnäsite is quite intricate.
- Scientists are studying the properties of samarium in research reactors.
- Samarium oxide is a common compound utilized in ceramic applications.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Applications
- Samarium is used to create powerful neodymium magnets, which are among the strongest permanent magnets known.
- It is also used in nuclear reactors as a neutron-capturing agent, playing a crucial role in controlling fission reactions.
Health
- Certain isotopes of samarium are used in medical applications, specifically in cancer treatment where they help target tumors.
- Samarium's ability to absorb neutrons makes it valuable in radiotherapy for precise radiation doses.
Technology
- This metal plays a role in the production of laser materials, which are essential for technologies in telecommunications and manufacturing.
- The elements of samarium are used in the creation of specialized glass, enhancing optics in instruments like microscopes.
Collectibles
- Samarium can be found in special collector’s items due to its rarity and unique properties, making it fascinating to scientists and enthusiasts alike.
- Some people collect samarium minerals, which can have beautiful colors and crystal shapes, showcasing the diversity of this element.
Origin of 'samarium'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'samarium' comes from 'Samarskite,' a mineral where the metal was first found, named after the mining engineer, Vasili Samarsky-Bykhovets.
- It was first discovered in 1853 by the French chemist Paul Émile Lecoq de Boisbaudran, adding to the list of elements from the lanthanide series.
The name 'samarium' was first proposed by the French chemist Paul Émile Lecoq de Boisbaudran in 1879, in honor of the mineral samarskite, from which it was first isolated. The mineral was named after the Russian mining engineer Vasily Samarsky-Bykhovets, who contributed significantly to mineralogy in the Ural Mountains region of Russia. Samarium was discovered following the isolation of other lanthanides, through a complex process of separation of the rare earth elements. The metal itself was first isolated in 1901 by the chemist Auer von Welsbach. Over the years, samarium has garnered interest for its unique properties and applications, particularly in the fields of nuclear technology, electronics, and materials science.