manganese
Noun: A hard, brittle, greyish-white metallic chemical element (symbol Mn, atomic number 25). It is polyvalent, meaning it can form compounds with different valencies. While it shares some physical similarities with iron, it is not magnetic. Its primary industrial use is in steelmaking, where it acts as a deoxidizer and alloying agent to increase strength and hardness. It is not found as a free metal in nature but occurs in many minerals.
Manganese is used as a countable noun when referring to the element itself or its commercial form. * The alloy contains manganese and chromium. * Manganese is an essential trace element for all living organisms.
- The steel's durability is improved by the addition of manganese.
- Manganese nodules are found on the ocean floor.
- A deficiency of manganese can affect plant growth.
- Manganese dioxide (MnO₂): A common compound of manganese used in dry-cell batteries and as a pigment.
- The black cathode in a zinc-carbon battery is made from manganese dioxide.
- In biochemistry, manganese is a cofactor for many enzymes.
- The enzyme superoxide dismutase requires manganese to function.
- Manganic (adjective): Relating to manganese with a higher valence, especially in the +3, +4, +6, or +7 state.
- Manganic oxide
- Manganous (adjective): Relating to manganese with a lower valence, especially in the +2 state.
- Manganous sulfate
- Manganate (noun): A salt containing the anion MnO₄²⁻.
- Permanganate (noun): A salt containing the anion MnO₄⁻, especially potassium permanganate (KMnO₄), a strong oxidizing agent and disinfectant.
- Element 25 (technical/scientific context)
- Mn (chemical symbol)
The word "manganese" refers specifically to the chemical element. It does not have other common, unrelated meanings. Its usage is primarily scientific, industrial, and nutritional.
- a hard brittle grey polyvalent metallic element that resembles iron but is not magnetic; used in making steel; occurs in many minerals