iridium

[ɪˈrɪdiəm]

iridium Definition

a dense, silvery-white, extremely hard, brittle, and corrosion-resistant metallic element of the platinum family, used especially for electrical contacts, as a catalyst, and in alloys.

Using iridium: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "iridium" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Iridium is used in spark plugs for aircraft engines.

  • Example

    The metal's high melting point makes it useful in high-temperature applications.

  • Example

    Iridium is also used in some jewelry pieces due to its rarity and durability.

iridium Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for iridium

Phrases with iridium

  • a phenomenon caused by the reflective surfaces on Iridium communication satellites, which can cause brief but bright reflections of sunlight visible from the Earth's surface

    Example

    We were lucky enough to catch an iridium flare during our stargazing trip.

  • a compound of iridium and oxygen, used as a catalyst in certain chemical reactions

    Example

    Iridium oxide is a promising material for use in fuel cells.

  • a form of iridium that has been treated with a special process to create a black coating, used in jewelry making

    Example

    The iridium black ring was a unique and striking piece of jewelry.

Origins of iridium

from Greek 'iris', meaning 'rainbow'

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Summary: iridium in Brief

Iridium [ɪˈrɪdiəm] is a hard, dense, and corrosion-resistant metallic element of the platinum family. It is used in electrical contacts, as a catalyst, and in alloys. The metal's high melting point makes it useful in high-temperature applications. Iridium is also used in some jewelry pieces due to its rarity and durability.