English UsageComparison guide
Aluminum vs. Aluminium
Cambridge labels “aluminum” US and “aluminium” UK; IUPAC’s English periodic-table spelling uses “aluminium.”
Use “aluminum” in US English and “aluminium” in UK English; IUPAC uses “aluminium” in its English periodic table.
Key details
Confusion Familyregional-spelling
Rule Familyregional-orthography
Termsaluminum, aluminium
Variant ScopeCambridge labels “aluminum” US and “aluminium” UK; IUPAC’s English periodic-table spelling uses “aluminium.”
Further guidance
Core difference
Use “aluminum” in US English and “aluminium” in UK English; scientific organizations or house styles may specify one form.
Fast Test
Match the form to the intended meaning, regional convention, or required house style, then keep that choice consistent.
Variant Boundary
Both forms refer to the same chemical element; the difference is naming/spelling convention, not a different substance.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Aluminum — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · US spelling of aluminium
- Aluminium — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · UK aluminium form and US aluminum counterpart
- Periodic Table — IUPAC (opens in a new tab)IUPAC · IUPAC English element spellings include sulfur and aluminium