Rhodium is a chemical element with the symbol Rh and atomic number 45. It is a rare, silvery-white, hard, and chemically inert transition metal. The spelling of "rhodium" is pronounced with the IPA transcription /ˈroʊdiəm/. The "rh" in "rhodium" is pronounced as a single sound, similar to the "r" sound in "rabbit" or "rotten". The "o" is pronounced as "oh", and the "dium" is pronounced as "dee-um". Rhodium is commonly used as a catalyst in many chemical reactions and as a coating for jewelry and other decorative items.
Rhodium is a chemical element represented by the symbol "Rh" and the atomic number 45. It belongs to the platinum group metals, which also include platinum, palladium, ruthenium, osmium, and iridium. Rhodium is a rare, silvery-white metal that is highly reflective and corrosion-resistant.
One of the defining characteristics of rhodium is its exceptional hardness and durability, making it a valuable element for various applications. It is primarily used as a catalyst in numerous chemical reactions, particularly in the automotive industry, for breaking down nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances. Rhodium is also widely employed in the production of high-quality jewelry and as a protective coating for white gold or silver due to its resistance to tarnish and wear.
Another significant utilization of rhodium is in electrical contacts and connectors, where its good conductive properties and resistance to corrosion prove advantageous. Additionally, this element finds its application in optical instruments, ceramic systems, and nuclear reactors.
Rhodium is obtained as a byproduct during the refining of other platinum group metals or extracted from certain ores. However, due to its rarity and high demand, it is considered one of the most expensive metals in the world. Despite its scarcity, rhodium continues to play a crucial role in various industries due to its unique properties and diverse applications.
A metallic element, symbol Rh, atomic weight 102.9, of bluish gray color, forming reddish compounds with acids.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A rare metal discovered by Wollaston in 1803, of a white or silver-grey colour, and extremely hard, so named from the colour of one of its solutions.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "rhodium" is derived from the Greek word "rhódos", meaning "rose" or "pink". This name was chosen because the first rhodium compounds discovered had a pink color.