Tungsten is a metal of remarkable strength and resilience, widely known for its high melting point and use in various industrial applications. But when it comes to its name, you might notice a peculiar dual identity: it’s called tungsten in some places, while others refer to it as wolfram. This dual naming is not just a quirk of language; it reflects a fascinating blend of history, science, and international discovery.

The Origins of “Wolfram”

The name wolfram comes from the mineral wolframite, a key source of tungsten. The term itself has roots in German, where wolf rahm translates to “wolf’s foam” or “wolf’s cream.” This unusual name is linked to the troublesome behavior of wolframite during the smelting process. Medieval German miners discovered that this mineral seemed to “devour” tin ores like a hungry wolf, preventing the efficient extraction of tin. The analogy to a wolf became a fitting descriptor for this frustrating mineral, and the term stuck.

By the late 18th century, German chemists had isolated a new, heavy element from wolframite, and it was named after the mineral—hence, wolfram became the common name for the element in many parts of Europe. In fact, even today, the chemical symbol for tungsten, W, is derived from the name wolfram, a nod to its historical roots.

The Rise of “Tungsten”

So, where does the name tungsten come from? While wolfram was widely used in German-speaking countries and parts of Europe, Swedish mineralogists were following a different trail. In 1781, Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele discovered an unusual heavy material in the mineral scheelite, which he initially called tung sten—meaning “heavy stone” in Swedish. Just a few years later, in 1783, Spanish brothers Fausto and Juan José de Elhuyar successfully isolated the element from wolframite, solidifying its position in the scientific world.

In English-speaking countries, the Swedish term tungsten caught on and became the widely accepted name for the element. By the early 19th century, it had firmly taken hold in the scientific community in the UK and the US.

Why Two Names?

The dual names reflect the parallel discoveries and the international nature of science in the 18th century. While German-speaking countries stayed loyal to the term wolfram due to its discovery via wolframite, others adopted the Swedish-origin name tungsten for its descriptive clarity—after all, this is one of the heaviest elements on the periodic table.

Even though the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) officially recognizes tungsten as the element’s name, wolfram is still used in many European countries, particularly in Germany, Spain, and Eastern Europe. The dual identity has persisted in both scientific and industrial communities, giving the element a truly global character.

Modern Applications of Tungsten/Wolfram

Regardless of what you call it, this element’s properties remain the same. Tungsten is famous for having the highest melting point of all metals (at a staggering 3,422°C or 6,192°F) and is incredibly dense. This makes it invaluable in industries that require materials capable of withstanding extreme heat and wear.

You’ll find tungsten in everything from light bulb filaments to cutting tools, x-ray tubes, and even military applications like armor-piercing rounds. Its ability to maintain strength at high temperatures makes it indispensable in aerospace and electronics. Tungsten carbide, an alloy of tungsten, is also widely used in manufacturing due to its hardness and durability—qualities that surpass many other metals, including steel.

Conclusion

The dual names for this fascinating element—tungsten and wolfram—are a reflection of the intertwined history of science and language. With roots in Swedish and German discoveries, both names honor the early chemists and miners who worked to isolate and understand this remarkable material. Whether you call it tungsten or wolfram, its importance in modern technology and industry is undeniable, and its historical journey is a testament to the collaborative nature of scientific progress.