Definition

Noun: * A white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust; an important component of most plants and animals. This is the chemical element with the symbol Ca.

Usage

• "Atomic number 20" is the formal, scientific name for the element calcium. It is used primarily in technical, chemical, and educational contexts to specify the element by its fundamental property—the number of protons in its nucleus.
• In most general contexts, the common name "calcium" is used instead.

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The periodic table lists the element with atomic number 20 as calcium.
  • Bones are rich in minerals containing atomic number 20.
• Educational Context:
  • Can you name the element that corresponds to atomic number 20?
  • The properties of atomic number 20 make it essential for cellular processes.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used to avoid ambiguity in precise scientific communication, as common names can vary by language or region, but the atomic number is a universal standard.
• It is often seen in the format "Z=20," where Z is the atomic number.

Variants and Related Words

• Calcium (n): The common name for the element with atomic number 20.
  • Milk is a good source of calcium.
• Ca (symbol): The chemical symbol for atomic number 20/calcium.
  • The compound's formula is CaCO₃.

Synonyms

• Calcium: The direct and most common synonym.
• Element 20: A less formal but equivalent scientific designation.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Atomic number: The fundamental property that defines an element (the number of protons in its nucleus). "Atomic number 20" is a specific instance of this concept.
  • Elements are ordered on the periodic table by increasing atomic number.

Noun

1. a white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust; an important component of most plants and animals