atomic number 46

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The term "atomic number 46" refers to the chemical element known as palladium. Let's break it down for a new English learner:

Basic Explanation:

Atomic Number: This is a number that defines an element in the periodic table. Each element has a unique atomic number.
46: This means that palladium has 46 protons in its nucleus.

General Definition:

Palladium (noun): A silver-white metal that is part of the platinum group. It looks similar to platinum and is found in some ores (rocks that contain minerals). Palladium does not get rusty or tarnished at normal temperatures, which makes it very useful in making jewelry, especially when mixed with gold.

Usage Instructions:

When talking about elements in chemistry, you can use "palladium" to refer to this specific metal. It’s often used in discussions about materials, jewelry making, or industrial applications.

Example Sentence:

“The jeweler used palladium to create a beautiful ring that would last for many years.”

Advanced Usage:

In chemistry and material science, palladium is often discussed in relation to its catalytic properties, meaning it can help speed up chemical reactions without being changed itself.

Word Variants:

Palladous (adjective): Relating to or containing palladium.
Palladiums (plural noun): Refers to more than one piece of palladium or multiple forms of the metal.

Different Meanings:

In a broader context, "palladium" can also refer to a safeguard or protection. For example, "The Constitution serves as a palladium of our rights."

Synonyms:

There are no direct synonyms for palladium as it's a specific element, but you can mention similar metals in the platinum group such as platinum, rhodium, or iridium.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "palladium," but knowing that it can represent protection can help you understand phrases like "a palladium of hope" in a metaphorical sense.

Conclusion:

Palladium is an important metal in both chemistry and jewelry making due to its unique properties.

Noun

a silver-white metallic element of the platinum group that resembles platinum; occurs in some copper and nickel ores; does not tarnish at ordinary temperatures and is used (alloyed with gold) in jewelry

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