Aluminium or Aluminum
Which Spelling is Correct?
Confused between "aluminium" and "aluminum"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.
British: Aluminium
"Aluminium" is the British English spelling with an extra "i" before the "um."
American: Aluminum
"Aluminum" is the American English spelling without the extra "i."
Definitions
Aluminium (noun, British):
A lightweight, silvery-white metallic element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13.
Examples:
- • The aluminium can was recycled.
- • Aluminium foil is commonly used in cooking.
- • The aircraft was made of aluminium alloy.
Aluminum (noun, American):
A lightweight, silvery-white metallic element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13.
Examples:
- • The aluminum can was recycled.
- • Aluminum foil is commonly used in cooking.
- • The aircraft was made of aluminum alloy.
Synonyms
Aluminium:
- • Al (chemical symbol)
- • Light metal
- • Metallic element
- • Bauxite ore
- • Alumina
Aluminum:
- • Al (chemical symbol)
- • Light metal
- • Metallic element
- • Bauxite ore
- • Alumina
Usage Notes
Important Points:
- • Aluminium is the British English spelling with an extra "i."
- • Aluminum is the American English spelling without the extra "i."
- • Both spellings refer to the same chemical element (Al).
- • The word comes from Latin "alumen" meaning "alum."
- • Use the spelling appropriate for your target audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which spelling is correct?
A: Both are correct! "Aluminium" is British English, while "aluminum" is American English.
Q: How do I remember the difference?
A: British spelling has an extra "i" (aluminium), while American spelling is shorter (aluminum).
Q: Which spelling should I use?
A: Use "aluminium" for British audiences and "aluminum" for American audiences.
Q: Are they pronounced differently?
A: Yes, British pronunciation is "al-yoo-MIN-ee-um" while American is "uh-LOO-muh-num."
Q: What are some common uses of this element?
A: Common uses include beverage cans, foil, aircraft construction, and building materials.
Q: Why do the spellings differ?
A: The difference arose from different pronunciations and spelling reforms in the 19th century.
Q: Can I use either spelling in scientific writing?
A: Use the spelling appropriate for your target journal or audience's location.
Q: Is aluminum/aluminium a common element?
A: Yes, it's the most abundant metal in Earth's crust and the third most abundant element overall.
Summary
Remember: Aluminium is the British English spelling with an extra "i," while aluminum is the American English spelling. Both refer to the same chemical element (Al). Choose the spelling appropriate for your target audience.