aluminium
UK: ˌæl.jʊˈmɪn.i.əm | US: əˈluː.mɪ.nəm
n. a lightweight, silvery-white metallic element (symbol Al), resistant to corrosion and used in alloys, packaging, and construction.
The word "aluminium" derives from "alum," a naturally occurring sulfate mineral (Latin "alumen," meaning "bitter salt"). English chemist Sir Humphry Davy initially named the element "alumium" (1808), later adjusted to "aluminum" and finally "aluminium" to align with other element suffixes like "sodium" and "potassium." The spelling variation reflects 19th-century scientific debates, with "aluminium" becoming standard in British English and "aluminum" in American English.
Aluminium is widely used in beverage cans due to its recyclability.
The aircraft's frame is made of lightweight aluminium alloy.
Aluminium foil helps preserve food by blocking moisture and air.
Australia is a leading exporter of bauxite, the primary ore for aluminium production.
The bridge was reinforced with aluminium to prevent rusting.