The Element Astatine

Atom

"The Atom"

Definition of the Astatine Element

A highly unstable radioactive element, the heaviest of the halogen series, that resembles Iodine in solution. Astatine occurs naturally in tiny amounts. The chemical properties of Astatine are believed to be similar to those of iodine The Atomic Number of this element is 85 and the Element Symbol is At.

The Properties of the Astatine Element
Symbol of Element : At
Atomic Number: 85
Atomic Mass: (210.0) amu
Melting Point: 302.0 °C - 575.15 °K
Boiling Point: 337.0 °C - 610.15 °K
Number of Protons/Electrons : 85
Number of Neutrons : 125
Crystal Structure: Unknown
Density Unknown
Color : Unknown

Origin / Meaning of the name Astatine
The name originates from the Greek word 'astatos' meaning unstable.

Periodic Table Group and Classification of the of the Astatine Element
Elements can be classified based on their physical states (States of Matter) e.g. gas, solid or liquid. This element is a solid. Astatine is classified as an element in the 'Halogens' section which can be located in group 7 of the Periodic Table. The term "halogen" means "salt-former" and compounds containing halogens are called "salts". The halogens exist, at room temperature, in all three states of matter - Gases such as Fluorine & Chlorine, Solids such as Iodine and Astatine and Liquid as in Bromine.

Facts about the Discovery and History of the Astatine Element
Astatine was discovered in University of California, Berkeley, USA by Dale R. Corson, K. R. MacKenzie, and Emilio Segre in 1940.

Occurrence of the Astatine Element
% in Universe N/A
% in Sun N/A
% in Meteorites None
% in Earth's Crust None
% in Oceans None
% in Humans None