unknown, 11 strokes, radical 钅, rank #65720, Very Hard
lǎo(lao3) T3
1rhodium
2rhodium (chemistry)
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March 24, 2026
铑(銠)lǎo(lao3)
铑 (lǎo) refers to rhodium, a chemical element with the symbol Rh and atomic number 45. It is a rare, silvery-white metallic element used in catalytic converters and in jewelry for its reflective properties. In chemical contexts, it is often discussed in relation to its industrial applications and properties.
Strokes11Radical钅Frequency#65720DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
Rhodium is significant in modern Chinese industry, particularly in automotive manufacturing for catalytic converters, which reflect China's move towards more environmentally-friendly technologies. Its rarity and value also highlight the importance of precious metals in Chinese jewelry.
Memory Tip
Imagine a shiny, silver rhino (like rhodium) standing under a spotlight, reflecting light everywhere. The '铑' character contains the metal radical '金' (jīn), which relates to metals, while the rest resembles a rhino's horn – a vivid image to link its sound and meaning.
Meanings of 铑
lǎo(lao3)
1rhodium
2rhodium (chemistry)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 铑
铑Simplified
銠Traditional
11Strokes
钅Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 铑
Podcast: 铑
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AI Study Notes for 铑
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a shiny, silver rhino (like rhodium) standing under a spotlight, reflecting light everywhere. The '铑' character contains the metal radical '金' (jīn), which relates to metals, while the rest resembles a rhino's horn – a vivid image to link its sound and meaning.
Usage Notes
Since '铑' is a specialized term, it is primarily used in scientific and industrial contexts rather than everyday conversation. Be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding characters or terms related to other metals. It’s often paired with terms like '元素' (yuánsù, element) in discussions.
HSK Study Tips
Although '铑' is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, learners at higher levels (HSK 5 and above) should familiarize themselves with it if they are studying chemistry or related fields. Focus on understanding its applications and properties in context.
Cultural Note
Rhodium is significant in modern Chinese industry, particularly in automotive manufacturing for catalytic converters, which reflect China's move towards more environmentally-friendly technologies. Its rarity and value also highlight the importance of precious metals in Chinese jewelry.
Common Mistakes
Learners might confuse '铑' with '老' (lǎo, old) due to similar pronunciation. Remember that '铑' is related to metals and chemistry, while '老' refers to age or seniority.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 铑
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Cultural Notes for 铑
🏮Cultural insight
Rhodium is significant in modern Chinese industry, particularly in automotive manufacturing for catalytic converters, which reflect China's move towards more environmentally-friendly technologies. Its rarity and value also highlight the importance of precious metals in Chinese jewelry.
Word Family of 铑
Words Containing This Character1
铑lǎorhodium (chemistry)銠
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 铑 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 铑
Rhodium is vital for its catalytic properties, particularly in reducing harmful emissions from vehicles.
Yes, rhodium is often used to plate white gold and silver jewelry to enhance shine and prevent tarnishing.
铑 is pronounced as 'lǎo', with a falling tone.
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