Manganese is a chemical element with atomic number 25. It is commonly used in steelmaking, aluminum alloys, and coin making. It is also an essential trace mineral for the human body, aiding in the formation of red blood cells and maintaining good vision.
The chemical element manganese comes in a number of different applications. Here are some basic facts about this element, its uses, and examples of how it’s a vital component in everything from steelmaking to the health of the human body.
Manganese is designated with a chemical symbol of Mn and has an atomic number of 25. Most commonly, it occurs as a trace mineral described as a free element. By free element, we mean that it has metallic properties which make it essential when it comes to working with metal alloys.
In its natural state, manganese has been described as a pearl gray metal, perhaps somewhat lighter in tone than iron. Although it is a hard metal, it is also very brittle. What makes it so suitable for use in construction is the fact that this element has excellent oxidizing qualities. The result is that, when included in the iron and steel manufacturing process, it creates alloys that are infinitely stronger than compounds would be without this metal in the mix. In fact, the largest use of manganese today is in creating alloys of iron and steel for building purposes.
However, there are many other products that use manganese as part of the components. Stainless steel items, such as kitchen sinks, cooking utensils, and a number of cookware types, are all made from steel alloys that include this element. The same goes for creating aluminum alloys. Aluminum storage buildings, cookware, and even some brands of aluminum foil are made possible by its introduction and deoxidizing properties in creating the base alloy.
Manganese is also used sparingly in coin making in various countries. Currently, the European Union uses it to produce one and two euro coins, while in the United States, the one dollar coin contains high levels of it.
A number of other uses are common today. For example, the inclusion of manganese in gasoline additives has been shown to increase the octane rating and help minimize engine knocking. In glass making, it helps remove the green tinge which is something left by the presence of iron particles. Manganese phosphates help fight rust and corrosion on steel surfaces. The oxide form has a brown appearance that can be used in paints.
When it comes to the human body, manganese is an essential trace mineral that is considered to be both a brain and nerve food. The mineral is considered essential for the formation of healthy red blood cells, proper function of the pituitary gland, and maintenance of good vision. Many herbal supplements that are meant to combat mental and physical fatigue, digestive problems, and nervous conditions will contain herbs such as ginger and catnip, both of which are known to contain significant amounts of manganese. It’s safe to say that this element is an essential part of our lives in more ways than one.
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