Selenium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Biology

• It's an essential nutrient for humans, playing a crucial role in metabolism and protecting cells from damage.
• Selenium is found in foods like Brazil nuts, seafood, and grains, where it helps with thyroid function and reproductive health.
• Deficiency can lead to health issues, including weakened immune response and heart disease.

Technology

• In the tech world, selenium is used in the manufacturing of photocopiers and solar cells, showcasing its electrical properties.
• It is also employed in semiconductor technology, helping to improve electronics and solar energy systems.
• Selenium is utilized in some types of glasses and pigments, enhancing durability and color.

Health Impacts

• Studies have shown that proper selenium intake can reduce the risk of certain cancers and boost overall health.
• Too much selenium can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms like gastrointestinal issues and hair loss.
• Research indicates its potential benefits for cognitive function and preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

Pop Culture

• The name 'selenium' has appeared in various media and literature, often in the context of science and environment themes.
• In the world of coding, Selenium is also a popular open-source tool for automated testing of web applications.
• Some video games and movies include references to elements and compounds, including selenium, as part of their scientific backdrop.

Main points about word origin

• The name comes from 'Selene,' the Greek goddess of the moon, reflecting its luminous properties.
• First identified in 1817 by Jöns Jakob Berzelius, a Swedish chemist, who found it while studying a mineral.
• The symbol for this element is 'Se,' which is derived from its name.

The word 'selenium' comes from the Greek word 'selēnē', meaning 'moon', due to its discovery during the study of tellurium, which was named after the Latin word for 'earth'. Selenium was discovered in 1817 by the Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius and his assistant Johan Gottlieb Gahn while trying to isolate tellurium from a substance that had a similar appearance. Its chemical properties were fully studied by the chemist Dmitri Mendeleev in the late 19th century, where it was classified in the periodic table. Over time, selenium has been recognized not only for its role in industrial applications but also for its essential function in biological systems, particularly as an antioxidant and in the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Its use in technology, especially in photography and electronics, has grown since the mid-20th century, establishing selenium as both a vital nutrient and a key material in various technological applications.

At position #13,287, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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