zir·co·ni·um (zûr-k  n - m)n. Symbol Zr A lustrous, grayish-white, strong, ductile metallic element obtained primarily from zircon and used chiefly in ceramic and refractory compounds, as an alloying agent, and in nuclear reactors as a highly corrosion-resistant alloy. Atomic number 40; atomic weight 91.22; melting point 1,852°C; boiling point 4,377°C; specific gravity 6.56 (20°C); valence 2, 3, 4. See Table at element. |
zirconium [zɜːˈkəʊnɪəm]
n
(Chemistry / Elements & Compounds) a greyish-white metallic element, occurring chiefly in zircon, that is exceptionally corrosion-resistant and has low neutron absorption. It is used as a coating in nuclear and chemical plants, as a deoxidizer in steel, and alloyed with niobium in superconductive magnets. Symbol: Zr; atomic no.: 40; atomic wt.: 91.224; valency: 2, 3, or 4; relative density: 6.506; melting pt.: 1855±2°C; boiling pt.: 4409°C
[from New Latin; see zircon]
zirconic [zɜːˈkɒnɪk] adj
| zirconium (zûr-kn-m) Symbol Zr A shiny, grayish-white metallic element that occurs primarily in zircon. It is used to build nuclear reactors because of its ability to withstand bombardment by neutrons even at high temperatures. Zirconium is also highly resistant to corrosion, making it a useful component of pumps, valves, and alloys. Atomic number 40; atomic weight 91.22; melting point 1,852°C; boiling point 4,377°C; specific gravity 6.56 (20°C); valence 2, 3, 4. See Periodic Table. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  zirconium - a lustrous grey strong metallic element resembling titanium; it is used in nuclear reactors as a neutron absorber; it occurs in baddeleyite but is obtained chiefly from zirconmetal, metallic element - any of several chemical elements that are usually shiny solids that conduct heat or electricity and can be formed into sheets etc. baddeleyite - a mineral consisting of zirconium oxide zircon, zirconium silicate - a common mineral occurring in small crystals; chief source of zirconium; used as a refractory when opaque and as a gem when transparent |
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