tantalum
- Noun:
- A hard, grey, lustrous metallic element that is highly resistant to corrosion: Tantalum is a chemical element (symbol Ta, atomic number 73) known for its hardness, shiny grey appearance, and exceptional resistance to acids and corrosion at low temperatures.
- A metal occurring in certain minerals: It is found naturally in minerals such as niobite (columbite), fergusonite, and tantalite.
- Noun:
- Tantalum is used in the manufacture of electronic components like capacitors.
- The surgical implant was made from tantalum due to its biocompatibility.
- This ore contains significant amounts of tantalum.
"Tantalum capacitor": A specific type of electrolytic capacitor where the anode is made of tantalum, known for high stability and capacitance in a small size.
- The circuit design requires a tantalum capacitor for reliable performance.
"Tantalum oxide": A compound (Ta₂O₅) formed by tantalum, used as a dielectric material in capacitors and in optical coatings.
- The thin film was coated with tantalum oxide.
Tantalic (adj): Relating to or containing tantalum, especially in a higher valence state.
- Tantalic acid is derived from tantalum pentoxide.
Tantalite (n): A black mineral that is the principal ore of tantalum.
- The mine was a major source of tantalite.
- Element 73: Referring to its atomic number.
- Ta: Its chemical symbol.
"Tantalum powder": A fine granular form of the metal used in sintering to create components.
- The anode was formed from pressed tantalum powder.
"Tantalum wire": Wire made from tantalum, used in various industrial and medical applications.
- Tantalum wire is used for sutures in surgery.
(Note: As a specific chemical element, tantalum does not feature in common idioms. Its usage is primarily technical.)
- a hard grey lustrous metallic element that is highly resistant to corrosion; occurs in niobite and fergusonite and tantalite