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chromium

(krō′mē əm)

noun

a grayish-white, crystalline, very hard, metallic chemical element with a high resistance to corrosion: used in chromium electroplating, in alloy steel ( stainless steel), and in alloys containing nickel, copper, manganese, and other metals ( Nichrome): symbol, Cr; at. no. 24

Origin: ModL < Fr chrome < Gr chrōma (see chroma) + -ium; so named (1797) by N.-L. Vauquelin, Fr chemist, its discoverer, because of its bright-colored compounds

See chromium in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun Symbol Cr

A lustrous, hard, steel-gray metallic element, resistant to tarnish and corrosion and found primarily in chromite. It is used in the hardening of steel alloys and the production of stainless steels, in corrosion-resistant decorative platings, and as a pigment in glass. Atomic number 24; atomic weight 51.996; melting point 1,890°C; boiling point 2,482°C; specific gravity 7.18; valence 2, 3, 6. See Table at element.

Origin:

Origin: From French chrome; see chrome

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