Definition

A type of steel structure that forms when iron and carbon are rapidly cooled, making it very hard and strong, commonly used in tools and machinery.

Example

The engineer chose martensite for the tool because of its exceptional hardness.

Conversation

I was reading about different types of steel, and I came across martensite.

Oh really? What did you find interesting about it?

It's fascinating how martensite is such a hard component in quenched steel.

Yeah, it's amazing how materials can change properties with just a bit of carbon!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Martensite is derived from the name of the German metallurgist Adolf Martens, who studied the structure of steel. The suffix '-ite' is commonly used in mineralogy and materials science to denote a specific type of mineral or structure. Therefore, martensite refers to the specific structure of steel named after Martens.

Memory Tip

Think of the name 'Martens' as the person who studied this specific structure in steel, and remember that '-ite' indicates a particular type of material. This helps you connect the word martensite to the unique structure of steel named after him.

Visually Confused Words