Chem. [f. STRONTIA: see -IUM.] The metallic base of strontia; a dark-yellow metal, fusible at red heat. Symbol Sr. Also attrib., as strontium chloride, etc.
The salts of strontium are chiefly used for imparting a deep-red color to flame.
1808. Sir H. Davy, in Phil. Trans., XCVIII. 346. I shall venture to denominate the metals from the alkaline earths barium, strontium, calcium, and magnium.
1868. Roscoe, Elem. Chem., 178. Copper is the only red-coloured metal known, whilst gold, strontium, and calcium, are yellow.
1892. Photogr. Ann., II. 447. [Price list enumerates:] Strontium acetate, bromide, carbonate, chloride, iodide, nitrate (pure, recrystallised), nitrate (commercial).
1916. Med. Press & Circular, 10 May, 419/2. Lactate of strontium 2 grammes a day, to control the albuminuria.
