The spelling of the word "zinc white" can be a bit confusing due to the irregularity in the pronunciation of the letter "z" and the combination "inc". In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be transcribed as /zɪŋk waɪt/. The "z" is pronounced with a voiced alveolar fricative /z/, whereas the "inc" combination produces an /ɪŋk/ sound. The word "white" is pronounced with a silent "e" at the end, which lengthens the preceding vowel /aɪ/. Therefore, the correct spelling of the word is "zinc white."
Zinc white is a term used in the realm of pigments and paints, referring to a particular type of white pigment derived from the element zinc. It is a fine, powdery substance that possesses a bright white color and is commonly employed in various artistic and industrial applications.
Zinc white has numerous defining characteristics that make it a popular choice for artists and manufacturers alike. Firstly, it exhibits exceptional covering and hiding power, allowing it to effectively obscure and mask underlying surfaces. Additionally, it has good lightfastness, meaning it resists fading or discoloration when exposed to light over time. This property ensures that the color remains stable and consistent, preserving the quality and appearance of artworks or products.
Furthermore, zinc white is appreciated for its non-toxic nature, making it a safe option for use in art materials or products that may come into contact with humans or the environment. It is also compatible with a range of binders and mediums, facilitating its integration into various painting techniques and formulations.
In summary, zinc white is a white pigment derived from the element zinc, known for its bright color, excellent covering power, lightfastness, compatibility, and non-toxicity. It is commonly utilized in the production of paints, coatings, plastics, and other materials where a vibrant and durable white color is desired.
Zinc oxide used in paint as a substitute for white lead.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A white powder from zinc, used as a pigment in the place of white-lead.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "zinc" originates from the German word "Zink", which is believed to have been derived from the Persian word "sing", meaning stone or rock. This connection likely arises from the fact that metallic zinc was historically obtained by heating zinc ore or "calamine" (which contains zinc carbonate) with charcoal, producing metallic zinc and releasing carbon dioxide as a byproduct.
The term "zinc white" refers to a pigment created from zinc oxide, which is a white, powdery substance. The etymology of the word "white" can be traced back to the Old English word "hwīt", which has Germanic roots. It is one of the oldest words in the English language and is closely related to similar words in various Germanic languages.