Manganese, a chemical element with the symbol Mn and atomic number 25, is an important metal for many industrial processes. Its spelling is a bit tricky, as it involves silent letters and doubled letters. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /ˈmæŋɡəniːz/. The "g" in "manganese" is silent, and the "n" is doubled to indicate the correct pronunciation of the initial syllable. Despite its unusual spelling, the metal is widely used in everything from steel production to batteries.
Manganese is a chemical element that is represented by the symbol Mn and has an atomic number of 25. It is classified as a transition metal, belonging to the group 7 and period 4 of the periodic table. Manganese is a hard, brittle, and silvery gray metal that is found abundantly in the Earth's crust.
As a dietary trace mineral, manganese is essential for the proper functioning of several enzymes in the body. It plays a significant role in various physiological processes, including metabolism, bone development, and antioxidant function. Manganese is also involved in the production of energy, the synthesis of connective tissues, and the regulation of blood sugar levels.
In nature, manganese is often found in combination with other metals and minerals. It is widely distributed and can be extracted from ores such as pyrolusite, rhodochrosite, and manganite. The metal is primarily used in steel production, as it improves the strength, hardness, and resistance to corrosion of the alloy. Additionally, manganese compounds are utilized in the manufacturing of batteries, ceramics, fertilizers, and certain medications.
Exposure to high levels of manganese through inhalation or ingestion can pose health risks, including neurological disorders such as manganism, which resembles Parkinson's disease. Occupational exposure is particularly common among manganese miners and workers in metal processing industries. Consequently, regulatory limits and safety measures are crucial in order to prevent excessive exposure to this element.
Manganum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A metal of a greyish-white colour, very hard and difficult to fuse-often applied to the black oxide of the metal.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "manganese" derives from the Latin word "magnesia", which refers to a kind of mineral. This Latin term possibly originated from the Greek term "magnēs lithos", meaning "magnet stone". The Greek term was used to describe a mineral, most likely magnetite or lodestone, which could attract iron. Over time, "magnesia" began to be applied to other minerals as well. By the 17th century, "magnesia nigra" was used specifically to refer to the black mineral we now know as manganese dioxide. Eventually, the name got shortened to "manganese", which is now used to describe both the element itself (atomic number 25) and the mineral.