cobalt
Definition
Cobalt is a chemical element with the symbol Co and atomic number 27. It is a hard, silvery-blue metal that is found in nature as a free element or as a minor constituent of other minerals.
Cobalt is a transition metal, which means that it has partially filled d orbitals.
Cobalt is a strong magnet, and it is used in the production of permanent magnets.
Cobalt is also used in the production of high-temperature alloys, such as those used in jet engines.
Cobalt is a relatively rare element, and the majority of the world's cobalt reserves are located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
How can the word be used?
The metallurgist used cobalt to make a new alloy.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
Singular: cobalt.
Adjective:
Cobaltous: containing cobalt.
Cobaltic: containing cobalt in a higher oxidation state.
Verb:
Cobalt: to treat with cobalt.
Etymology
The word “cobalt” comes from the German word “kobold” or “kobolds,” which means “goblin” or “dwarf.” The word “kobold” was used by miners to refer to the mischievous spirits that they believed lived in the mines and caused problems.
Question
Describe what cobalt looks like.
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Describe the element "cobalt" and its significance in various applications, including industry and medicine.
Answer:
Cobalt is a chemical element with the symbol "Co" and atomic number 27. It is a hard, lustrous, silver-grey metal found naturally in the Earth's crust. Cobalt is essential in various applications due to its unique properties.
In industry, cobalt is a crucial component of alloys used in the production of high-strength magnets, cutting tools, and turbine blades. Cobalt-based alloys have exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and heat tolerance, making them invaluable in aerospace, manufacturing, and construction.
Furthermore, cobalt plays a vital role in medicine. It is a key component of Vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for human health. Vitamin B12 is necessary for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and nerve function. Cobalt is also utilised in some medical devices, such as cobalt-chromium alloys used in orthopaedic implants.
However, excessive exposure to cobalt can be harmful. In certain industries, workers may be at risk of cobalt toxicity due to prolonged exposure. It is crucial to use cobalt responsibly and ensure proper safety measures to prevent adverse effects.