Aluminium

Definition

Aluminium is a chemical element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13. It is a silvery-white, soft, nonmagnetic, ductile metal known for its low density, corrosion resistance, and high conductivity. Aluminium is one of the most widely used metals in the world due to its versatility and abundance.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English (commonly referred to as aluminum)

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈluːmɪnəm/
• Respelling: uh-LOO-mi-num

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌæl(j)uːˈmɪniəm/
• Respelling: al-yoo-MIN-ee-um

The pronunciation of "aluminium" differs between American and British English, with the American variant commonly using "aluminum."

Etymology

The word "aluminium" is derived from the Latin "alumen," meaning "bitter salt." The element was named by British chemist Sir Humphry Davy in 1808. Originally called "alumium" and later modified to "aluminum," the name was changed to "aluminium" in British English to align with the naming conventions of other elements ending in "-ium."

Derivatives

• Aluminum (American English variant)
• Alumina (noun)
• Aluminize (verb)
• Aluminiferous (adjective)
• Aluminic (adjective)

Synonyms

• Metal
• Al
• Alumina (in compound form)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "aluminium" is widely used in chemistry, manufacturing, and engineering. Due to its light weight and high resistance to corrosion, aluminium is used in a variety of industries, including transportation, construction, and packaging. Its high electrical conductivity makes it ideal for power transmission lines. Additionally, aluminium is commonly alloyed with other metals to enhance its strength, making it versatile for industrial applications.

Related Terms

• Alloy: A metal made by combining two or more metallic elements, often to increase strength or resistance.
• Bauxite: The primary ore from which aluminium is extracted.
• Electrolysis: A process used to extract aluminium from bauxite.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A chemical element with atomic number 13: Refers to the pure element, used extensively in industry and valued for its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties.
  • Example: "Aluminium is used to manufacture airplane parts due to its low density."
• A metal alloyed with other metals: Refers to the metal when combined with other elements to enhance strength and durability.
  • Example: "Strong aluminium alloys are essential in automotive manufacturing."