crucible
- Noun. (context, chemistry) A cup-shaped piece of laboratory equipment used to contain chemical compounds when heating them to very high temperatures.
- Noun. A heat-resistant container in which metals are melted, usually at temperatures above 500°C, commonly made of graphite with clay as a binder.
- Noun. The bottom and hottest part of a blast furnace; the hearth.
- Noun. A very difficult and trying experience, that acts as a refining or hardening process.
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This entry was last updated on RefTopia from its source on 3/20/2012.