keemiline element järjenumbriga Z = 48; suhteliselt väheaktiivne pehme metall, mille lahustuvad ühendid on väga mürgised; kasutatakse nt mitmesuguste sulamite koostises
a soft bluish metal belonging to group 12 (formerly IIB) of the periodic table; a.n. 48; r.a.m. 112.41; r.d. 8.65; m.p. 320.9°C; b.p. 765°C
Cadmium is used in low-melting-point alloys to make solders, in Ni-Cd batteries, in bearing alloys, and in electroplating (over 50%). Cadmium compounds are used as phosphorescent coatings in TV tubes. Cadmium and its compounds are extremely toxic at low concentrations; great care is essential where solders are used or where fumes are emitted.
