Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Tellurium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⚛️
Add to dictionary

tellurium

[tɛləˈrɪəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Tellurium is a brittle, silvery-white metalloid element that is used primarily in alloys and as a semiconductor. It is categorized in group 16 of the periodic table and shares some properties with sulfur and selenium. Due to its unique properties, tellurium is also used in solar panels and various electronic devices.

Synonyms

Te, atomic number 52.

Examples of usage

  • Tellurium is often blended with copper to improve its machinability.
  • The semiconductor industry utilizes tellurium for its unique electrical properties.
  • Tellurium is an essential component in certain types of solar cells.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Tellurium is classified as a metalloid, meaning it has properties of both metals and nonmetals.
  • It is used in solar panels because it helps convert sunlight into electricity efficiently.
  • Tellurium compounds can be toxic, which makes handling this element with care important in laboratories.

Pop Culture

  • In the science fiction community, tellurium has been used as a fictional element in various media, often representing advanced technology.
  • Some video games feature tellurium in their crafting systems, leveraging its theoretical potential for making powerful items.

Industrial Uses

  • Tellurium is an essential component in metal alloys, improving their strength and resistance to corrosion.
  • It is also used in thermoelectric materials, which are capable of converting temperature differences into electric energy.

History

  • Despite its utility, tellurium remained relatively obscure compared to its more famous neighbors on the periodic table until the late 19th century.
  • The element played a critical role in the development of photocopying technology in the 20th century.

Origin of 'tellurium'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'tellurium' comes from the Latin word 'tellus', meaning 'earth'.
  • It was first discovered in 1782 by a scientist named Franz Joseph Müller von Reichenstein in Transylvania.
  • Though it was recognized in the 18th century, its properties were not fully understood until the 19th century.

The name 'tellurium' is derived from the Latin word 'tellus', which means 'earth'. It was first discovered in 1782 by the Hungarian chemist Franz-Joseph Müller von Reichenstein while he was working in the mines of Transylvania. Initially, tellurium was recognized as a byproduct of gold ore refining, and its properties were not well understood. The element was later isolated by Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius in 1817. Over the years, tellurium's uses have expanded, particularly in metal alloys and electronics, due to its unique electrical and thermal properties.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,875, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.