Tungsten is present in many pens.
Tungsten is a chemical element that is also known as tungsten . This is the element whose symbol is a W and its atomic number is 74 .
The etymology of the term we use in our language takes us to the Swedish language, as detailed in the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ). Its origin is in the compound word tungsten : tung can be translated as heavy , while sten refers to stone . Tungsten , therefore, is a very heavy stone .
Tungsten characteristics
Tungsten is a metal that is found as a salt or oxide in some minerals, although its presence is reduced in the crust of our planet. As its etymological root already anticipates, tungsten is characterized by its hardness . It is also very dense and has the highest melting point in the periodic table of elements.
Tungsten, which in its natural state exhibits a grayish tone, is used in the generation of electrical resistances , in the manufacture of incandescent light bulbs and during welding processes. It can also be combined with steel in an alloy to manufacture machines and tools .
Due to its characteristics, tungsten is a metal of great strategic importance. This chemical element is present in televisions, cars, pens, dental instruments and integrated circuits, to name a few elements. It is also used to armor vehicles and projectiles: that is why it is relevant in the weapons industry .
With tungsten you can armor a vehicle.
the widia
No less interesting is to highlight the existence of what is known as tungsten carbide or widia . It is a compound formed from tungsten and carbon that has great hardness and is used, above all, to carry out the manufacture of utensils and machinery.
Specifically, it is currently used to undertake the creation of armor-piercing ammunition, the tips of the poles used by climbers, parts for drills, the tips of snowmobile belts, special shoes for workers, and tweezers and scissors. which are used in operating rooms to undertake any surgical intervention. All this without forgetting that tungsten carbide is also present in the tips of the darts used by professionals and even in certain fishing implements.
This element is so important that the United States has it classified as a fundamental substance just like oil .
Other interesting facts about tungsten
In addition to everything explained, it is worth knowing other curiosities about tungsten, among which are the following:
- It is considered that it was discovered by two Spanish brothers ( Fausto and Juan José Elhuyar ) during the trips they made through the lands of countries such as Mexico and Colombia .
- During the Second World War , the existence of this element and its export gave both Spain and Portugal a significant amount of money.
- Germany is considered to be the first country to shape weapons using tungsten in 1914 .
- Tungsten poisoning can cause kidney damage, seizures and even death when it occurs in very high doses.