Aluminum (Al)
Aluminum (Al) is element 13, a post-transition metal. Atomic mass 26.9815384, configuration [Ne] 3s² 3p¹. Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 13 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Al |
| Standard atomic weight | 26.9815384(3) |
| Category | Post-transition Metal |
| Group | 13 |
| Period | 3 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Ne] 3s² 3p¹ |
| Valence electrons | 3 |
| Common oxidation states | +3 |
| Common ions | Al³⁺ |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.61 |
| First ionization energy | 578 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 41.76 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 118 pm |
| Density | 2.7 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 660.32°C |
| Boiling point | 2519°C |
| Specific heat | 0.897 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Al-27: Stable
Common uses
- Aircraft structures
- Cans/Foil
- Power lines
Where it matters
- Recycling (Infinite recyclability)
- Transportation efficiency (Lightweighting)
Hazards
- Dust is flammable/explosive
History
| Discovered | 1825 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Hans Christian Ørsted |
| Name | Humphry Davy |