December 2007: Volume 2 Number 12
Cobalt [Co] – This metal comes from the German word "Kobold", which means goblin. The early metallurgists believed that goblins guarded this metal and prevented man from liberating the metal. Today, both cobalt and nickel is difficult and complicated to isolate.
Cobalt is similar to iron because of its properties. Cobalt can be magnetized just like iron. It is used as a catalyst in the hydrogenation of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide with the formation of hydrocarbons and to oxidate ammonia. Cobalt coordinates its activities with Sulfur to repair the myelin sheath and helps to utilize glucose from the blood for its activities. It also is a partner with Iron to construct red blood cells, synthesize Vitamin B12, inhibit anemia, improve blood circulation and prevent some nervous disorders.
We will discuss Manganese (Mn) mineral in our next lecture as a continuation of the specific uses of minerals or element in our bodies.
© Copyright 2007 The Specific Uses of Minerals or Elements in the Body – Cobalt
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