Calx

Part of Speech

Noun (singular), Plural: Calces

Pronunciation

/kælks/

Definitions

• 1. The solid residue left after the heating of a substance, especially a metal oxide, to a high temperature.
• 2. Lime, especially in the form of calcium oxide.
• 3. A term used historically in chemistry for the calcined remains of materials after combustion.

Usage Examples

• The calx of zinc is a white powder that forms when the metal is heated in air.
• In ancient alchemy, the calx was believed to contain the essence of the substance after purification.

Etymology

From Latin "calx," meaning "lime" or "lime stone," which is derived from the Greek word "kalkos," meaning "lime" or "stone."

Synonyms

• Lime
• Calcined matter
• Ash

Antonyms

• Original substance
• Unheated material

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, the pronunciation of "calx" may slightly vary depending on the local language influences, particularly in non-English speaking countries.

Historical Usage

Historically, "calx" referred to the product of heating a metal or other material until it reached a state of calcination. It was a term widely used in alchemy, chemistry, and metallurgy during the Renaissance and early modern period.

Cultural Nuances

In ancient cultures, the calcination of substances (producing calx) was seen as an important process in the transformation of materials, often linked to alchemical beliefs about purification and transformation. In modern times, "calx" remains a technical term primarily used in scientific contexts, especially chemistry and materials science.

More Information

Calx is primarily associated with the chemical process of calcination, which involves heating a substance to a high temperature to bring about a chemical change, often resulting in the formation of an oxide. This process is fundamental in industries such as metallurgy, cement production, and the production of quicklime (calcium oxide). While the term "calx" is mostly historical in modern chemistry, understanding it remains crucial for the study of materials science and alchemy.