samarium

/sæməriəm/

Definitions

1. noun

A chemical element with the symbol Sm and atomic number 62, used in nuclear applications, alloys, and lasers.

“The nuclear reactor uses samarium to control its reaction rates.”

2. proper noun

A chemical element that is a member of the lanthanide series and is the 105th most abundant element in the Earth’s crust.

“Samarium is one of the rare earth elements used in electronic devices.”

Synonyms

  • lanthanide
  • rare earth