atomic number 20

3.4

A metal element that animals and plants need for bones and muscles

noun
/əˈtɑːmɪk ˈnʌmbər ˈtwɛnti/

Specialized

: número atómico 20

The bones in the human body are rich in atomic number 20 to provide strength and structure.

Examples

Researchers studied how plants absorb atomic number 20 from the soil for healthy growth.
Calcium is atomic number 20.
Atomic number 20 is vital for muscle function in both animals and humans.
Did you know atomic number 20 is calcium?
Atomic number 20 is essential for the growth of healthy plants and the maintenance of strong bones in animals.
Eating foods rich in atomic number 20, like dairy products and leafy greens, can help improve bone health.
In humans, atomic number 20 plays a crucial role in blood clotting and muscle contractions.

Synonyms

calcium

vsatomic number 20

Specialized

80 3.1

A soft silvery white metal that helps make bones and teeth

is the numerical label for that element rather than the common name

vsatomic number 20

Specialized

3 4.1

Symbol for the metal calcium found in bones and rocks

uses a numeric label instead of a short letter symbol

Surface Forms

atomic number 20 singular

atomic numbers 20 plural

Morphology

atomic + number + twenty

The phrase is partially compositional: 'atomic' (relating to atoms) combined with 'number 20' signals a numeric identifier for an element, so learners can infer it refers to an element labeled 20. However, knowing that element 20 is specifically calcium requires domain knowledge of the periodic table that is not derivable from the constituents alone.

Etymology

Atomic number 20 comes from counting the tiny positive particles called 'protons' inside an atom; calcium atoms have exactly 20, and that exact count is what makes the atom the element calcium. So, atomic number 20 means the 'element' calcium, known for strong bones and a bright flame when it burns.