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Scandium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scandium

[หˆskรฆndiษ™m ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Scandium is a chemical element with the symbol Sc and atomic number 21. It is a soft, silvery-white metal that is part of the transition metals in the periodic table. Scandium is primarily used in aluminum alloys for aerospace components and may enhance the strength of aluminum significantly.

Synonyms

Sc, element 21.

Examples of usage

  • Scandium is often used in aerospace materials.
  • The discovery of scandium was crucial for advancements in metallurgy.
  • Scandium contributes to efficient lighting technologies.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Scandium has the atomic number 21 and is categorized as a transition metal on the periodic table.
  • It is one of the lightest transition metals, making it a valuable component in aerospace and military applications.
  • When combined with aluminum, scandium improves the alloy's strength and helps reduce its weight significantly.

Technology

  • The metal is used in high-performance sports equipment like bicycle frames and baseball bats, providing durability and reduced weight.
  • In solid-state lighting, scandium is used in high-intensity discharge lamps, enhancing light output and efficiency.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of video games, some futuristic storylines feature materials inspired by real elements like scandium for their advanced properties.
  • Scandium has been referenced in various science fiction books and movies, often tied to advanced technology due to its unique characteristics.

Environmental Impact

  • Scandium is not commonly found, and recycling of scandium-containing materials is becoming more important for sustainable technology.
  • Research is being conducted on scandium's role in improving energy storage solutions for renewable energy technologies.

Origin of 'scandium'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'scandium' comes from 'Scandia', the Latin name for Scandinavia, reflecting its discovery in a region inspired by Northern European countries.
  • It was first identified in 1879 by Swedish chemist Lars Fredrik Nilson after he found it in certain minerals.

The element scandium was first discovered in 1879 by the Swedish chemist Lars Fredrik Nilson. He isolated it from a mineral called euxenite. Nilson named the element after Scandia, the Latin name for Scandinavia, which reflects the region's geological significance in the study of this metal. Initially, scandium was not considered particularly useful or abundant, but over time, it was found to have valuable applications, especially in the aerospace industry due to its ability to improve the strength and durability of aluminum. The production of scandium metal was limited until the advent of modern extraction techniques in the latter half of the 20th century, which increased its availability for commercial use.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,990 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.