The Element Iridium

Atom

"The Atom"

Definition of the Iridium Element
A very hard and brittle, exceptionally corrosion-resistant, whitish-yellow metallic element occurring in Platinum ores and used principally to harden platinum and in high-temperature materials, electrical contacts, and wear-resistant bearings. Iridium together with rhodium, ruthenium, palladium, osmium and platinum form a group of elements referred to as the platinum group metals (PGM).

Iridium is notable for being the most corrosion resistant element known. It is unaffected by air, water and acids. The Atomic Number of this element is 77 and the Element Symbol is Ir.

The Properties of the Iridium Element
Symbol of Element : Ir
Atomic Number : 77
Atomic Mass: 192.217 amu
Melting Point: 2410.0 °C - 2683.15 °K
Boiling Point: 4527.0 °C - 4800.15 °K
Number of Protons/Electrons : 77
Number of Neutrons : 115
Crystal Structure: Cubic
Density @ 293 K: 22.5 g/cm3
Color : whitish-yellow

Origin / Meaning of the name Iridium
The name "iridium" originates from the Latin word meaning "of rainbows" because of the "variety of colors in the element's salt solutions".

Periodic Table Group and Classification of the of the Iridium Element
Elements can be classified based on their physical states (States of Matter) e.g. gas, solid or liquid. This element is a solid. Iridium is classified as a "Transition Metal" which are located in Groups 3 - 12 of the Periodic Table. Elements classified as Transition Metals are generally described as ductile, malleable, and able to conduct electricity and heat. Nearly 75% of all the elements in the Periodic Table are classified as metals which are detailed in the List of Metals.

Facts about the History and the Discovery of the Iridium Element
Iridium was discovered by Smithson Tennant in London, England in 1803

Occurrence of the Iridium Element
The Earth's core is rich in iridium
Obtained from gravel deposits with platinum

Associated Uses of Iridium
Hardening agent in platinum alloys
Fountain pen nibs
Making crucibles
Electrical contacts
Spark plugs
Phones
Goggles
Denso iridium