magnesia

/mæg'ni:ʃə/

Thân thiện

A scientist holds a sample of magnesia in a geology lab.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A white solid mineral: Magnesia is a naturally occurring white solid mineral, specifically the mineral form of magnesium oxide (MgO), known as periclase. It serves as an important source of magnesium.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The compound contains magnesia, which gives it fire-resistant properties.
  • Periclase is the natural mineral form of magnesia.

Advanced Usage

• Technical/Industrial Context: In industrial and chemical contexts, "magnesia" often refers specifically to magnesium oxide used in manufacturing, refractory materials, or medicine.
  • The refractory bricks are lined with magnesia to withstand extreme heat.

Variants and Related Words

• Magnesium Oxide (MgO): The chemical compound name for magnesia.
• Periclase: The specific name for the natural mineral form of magnesia.
• Milk of Magnesia: A common medicinal suspension of magnesium hydroxide, used as an antacid and laxative. (Note: This is a compound term where "magnesia" is part of the name).

Synonyms

• Magnesium oxide: The direct chemical synonym.
• Periclase: Specifically refers to the mineral form.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The primary and almost exclusive meaning of "magnesia" in modern English is as a term for magnesium oxide (MgO). Its use in compound terms like "Milk of Magnesia" is a specific pharmaceutical application.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a white solid mineral that occurs naturally as periclase; a source of magnesium

Từ đồng nghĩa

• periclase
• magnesium oxide