Tungsten is a metallic element with the atomic number 74 and the chemical symbol W. The word "tungsten" is spelled with a "t" at the beginning and an "en" at the end. It is pronounced using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈtʌŋstən/. The "t" sound is followed by a short "u" sound, while the "ng" sound is made by the back of the tongue pressing against the soft palate. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound and a nasal "n" sound.
Tungsten is a chemical element with the symbol W and the atomic number 74. It is a highly dense, strong, and hard metal that is found naturally on Earth. Tungsten has a silvery-white appearance and is known for its exceptional heat resistance and high melting point, making it suitable for various applications.
In its pure form, tungsten is brittle and difficult to work with, but when combined with small amounts of other metals, it becomes more malleable. It is often used as an alloy in the creation of strong and high-temperature materials, such as tool steels, superalloys, and heating elements. Tungsten alloys are also utilized in electrical and electronic devices due to their high electrical conductivity.
Additionally, tungsten is a key component in the production of filaments for incandescent light bulbs and electron microscope filaments, as it has a high emission capability. Its density makes it an ideal material for applications requiring weight balancing, such as in aircraft and Formula One car components.
The name "tungsten" derives from the Swedish words "tung" and "sten," which translate to "heavy stone," as tungsten ores are notably dense. This element is commonly referred to as "wolfram" in many countries, which originated from its German name. Tungsten holds significant importance in various industrial sectors due to its unique properties, making it a valuable and versatile element in modern technology and manufacturing.
A metallic element, symbol W (wolframium), atomic weight 184, occurring as a gray powder of metallic luster. A form of incandescent electric lamp is made of a tungsten filament.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A hard brittle metal of a light steel-grey colour and brilliant metallic lustre-also called wolfram.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "tungsten" comes from the Swedish term "tung sten", which translates to "heavy stone". The name was given to the element because of its high density and weight. The word "tung" means "heavy" in Swedish, and "sten" means "stone". The element itself was discovered in the late 18th century by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele and later isolated in 1783 by his compatriot and fellow chemist, Peter Jacob Hjelm.