cadmium

Definition / meaning of cadmium

A metallic element that occurs naturally in tiny amounts in air, water, soil, and food. It is a byproduct of zinc refining, and is used to make batteries, pigments, plastics, alloys, and electroplate. It is also found in cigarette smoke. Exposure to high levels of cadmium may cause certain cancers and other health problems.

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Find More About 'cadmium'

Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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