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osmium

Definition

Osmium is a very dense metal that is found in the Earth's crust. It is the densest natural element on Earth, and it is even denser than lead. Osmium is a hard metal that is difficult to melt or deform. It is also a very brittle metal, and it can shatter easily.

Osmium is used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Making pens, because it is so dense that it does not wear down easily.
  • Making electrical contacts, because it is a good conductor of electricity.
  • Making jewellery, because it is a very attractive metal.

How can the word be used?

Osmium is a very hard and brittle metal.

osmium

Different forms of the word

Noun: A chemical element with the symbol Os and atomic number 76. It is the densest naturally occurring element.

Adjective: Relating to osmium.

Etymology

The word "osmium" comes from the Greek word "osmé" (smell), which refers to the pungent smell of its oxide.

The word "osmium" was first used in English in 1804 by the English chemist Smithson Tennant.

Question

What is osmium used for?