PECHBLENDE Meaning and
Definition
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Pechblende, also known as pitchblende, is a mineral composed primarily of uranium oxide and various impurities. It is a type of uranium ore that is recognized for its high uranium content, making it a significant source of uranium for nuclear fuel production. The term "pechblende" originates from the German words "pech," meaning pitch or black, and "blende," meaning mineral ore.
Physically, pechblende is typically dark brown to black in color and has a metallic luster. It often occurs in massive or granular form and may exhibit a high density. The mineral can appear in various geological environments, including igneous, hydrothermal, and sedimentary deposits.
Due to its radioactive nature, pechblende has historically been associated with its radioactivity rather than its uranium content. The discovery of radioactivity by Henri Becquerel and subsequent research by Marie Curie led to the understanding that the radioactivity of pechblende was not solely due to uranium but also to the presence of other radioactive elements like radium and polonium.
The utilization of pechblende as a uranium source gained significance during the development of nuclear technology in the 20th century. Since it contains a high percentage of uranium, it became valuable for nuclear reactors and the production of weapons-grade uranium. Today, pechblende continues to be a valuable source of uranium and is an essential mineral in the nuclear energy industry.
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An ore of uranium and iron, used in porcelain-painting, glass-blowing, and the like.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PECHBLENDE
- oechblende
- lechblende
- -echblende
- 0echblende
- pwchblende
- pschblende
- pdchblende
- prchblende
- p4chblende
- p3chblende
- pexhblende
- pevhblende
- pefhblende
- pedhblende
- pecgblende
- pecbblende
- pecnblende
- pecjblende
- pecublende
- pecyblende
Etymology of PECHBLENDE
The word "pechblende" is derived from the German term "Pechblende", which translates to "pitch-blende" in English.
The term is a combination of two components - "pech" meaning "pitch" and "blende" meaning "deceptive mineral". The word "pitch" refers to a dark, viscous substance, while "blende" is derived from the German verb "blenden", meaning "to deceive or blind".
The name was originally given to this mineral due to its appearance. Pechblende is a highly radioactive and dense mineral that often has a pitch-black, dark appearance, hence the comparison to pitch. The term "blende" was used to describe minerals that were similar in appearance to valuable ores but were actually valueless or harmful.
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