Definition

A process used to purify metals like silver and gold by heating them in the presence of air, which helps to remove unwanted materials.

Example

The ancient method of cupellation was essential for extracting pure gold from ore.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of cupellation in metal refining?

Yeah, I think it's a process to purify metals like silver, right?

Exactly! They use high temperatures to separate the unwanted metals.

That sounds really interesting; I didn’t know it was that complex!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cupellation is derived from the word 'cupella' (from Latin, meaning a small cup or crucible) and the suffix '-ation' (indicating a process or action). The term refers to the process of refining precious metals, particularly in a small cup-like vessel.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'small cup' ('cupella') used in a process ('-ation') to refine metals — that's what cupellation means.

Visually Confused Words