Pronunciation: [kˈadmi͡əm fjˈuːm] (IPA) 
The word "cadmium fume" is spelled with the IPA symbols /kædmiəm fjuːm/. The first syllable, "cadmium," is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by a "d" sound, a "m" sound, and an "i" sound. The second syllable, "fume," is pronounced with a long "u" sound, like "you," followed by an "m" sound and a final "e" sound that is silent. This word refers to a toxic gas that is released when cadmium is heated or burned.
Cadmium fume is a term used to describe the highly toxic metal particulates and vapors that are released into the air when cadmium and its compounds are heated or evaporated. Cadmium is a naturally occurring element that is commonly found in the Earth's crust, often in association with zinc or lead ores. It is primarily produced as a byproduct of the mining, smelting, and refining of zinc.
When cadmium-containing materials, such as certain paints, batteries, or plastics, are heated or melted, cadmium fumes are emitted into the surrounding atmosphere. These fumes mainly consist of fine particles and gases, including cadmium oxides, cadmium chloride, and cadmium sulfates. Cadmium fume exposure commonly occurs in industrial settings, such as metal processing facilities, welding operations, or battery manufacturing plants.
Inhaling cadmium fumes can be extremely hazardous to human health. Acute exposure to cadmium fumes may cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs. Prolonged or repeated exposure to cadmium fumes can lead to serious long-term health effects, including lung damage, kidney damage, and a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Due to the severe health risks associated with cadmium fume exposure, strict industrial safety regulations and protective measures, such as proper ventilation systems and personal protective equipment, are implemented to minimize the release and inhalation of cadmium fumes in workplaces.
The word "cadmium" originates from the Latin word "cadmia", which itself is derived from the Greek word "kadmeia", meaning "calamine". Calamine refers to a pinkish-white mineral used in medicinal and cosmetic products. The term "fume" is derived from the Old French word "fum", meaning "smoke" or "exhalation". Therefore, "cadmium fume" refers to the smoke or vapor produced by cadmium when it is heated or vaporized.
