KUPFERNICKEL Meaning and
Definition
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Kupfernickel is a noun that refers to a hard, metallic compound primarily composed of nickel and copper with a chemical formula of NiAs. It is a naturally occurring mineral that typically has a silver-white or greyish color and a metallic luster. The name "kupfernickel" originates from the German words "kupfer" (meaning copper) and "nickel" (meaning devil’s copper or false copper) due to its resemblance to copper ore, but with lower copper content.
Kupfernickel is mainly used as an important source of nickel, which is a valuable transition metal widely utilized in various industrial applications. It plays a significant role in the production of stainless steel, as well as in the manufacturing of alloys, batteries, electronics, and other corrosion-resistant materials. Additionally, kupfernickel can sometimes contain small amounts of other minerals such as iron, sulfur, and arsenic, which may affect its overall composition and properties.
This mineral is commonly found in deposits associated with ore bodies and often occurs alongside other minerals like pyrrhotite, pentlandite, and chalcopyrite. Its presence can be detected through geological surveys and exploration techniques. Kupfernickel, being a durable and resilient mineral, is capable of withstanding high temperatures and pressures, making it an important resource for industrial purposes.
Common Misspellings for KUPFERNICKEL
- jupfernickel
- mupfernickel
- lupfernickel
- oupfernickel
- iupfernickel
- kypfernickel
- khpfernickel
- kjpfernickel
- kipfernickel
- k8pfernickel
- k7pfernickel
- kuofernickel
- kulfernickel
- ku-fernickel
- ku0fernickel
- kupdernickel
- kupcernickel
- kupvernickel
- kupgernickel
Etymology of KUPFERNICKEL
The word "Kupfernickel" has German origins and consists of two separate words: "Kupfer" and "Nickel".
- "Kupfer" in German means "copper", which refers to the reddish-brown metal.
- "Nickel" in German is a compound word composed of "kupfer" (copper) and "nick" or "nicke", translating roughly to "impish" or "mischievous".
The term "Kupfernickel" was used historically to describe a mineral that resembled copper ore but was not useful in the production of copper because it contained a high amount of nickel. Therefore, the name suggests a deceptive or misleading similarity to copper, but with an impurity (nickel) that rendered it undesirable.
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