Antimony (Sb)
Antimony (Sb) is element 51, a metalloid. Atomic mass 121.76, configuration [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p³. Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 51 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Sb |
| Standard atomic weight | 121.760(1) |
| Category | Metalloid |
| Group | 15 |
| Period | 5 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p³ |
| Valence electrons | 5 |
| Common oxidation states | -3, +3, +5 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 2.05 |
| First ionization energy | 834 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 100.9 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 145 pm |
| Density | 6.68 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 630.62°C |
| Boiling point | 1587°C |
| Specific heat | 0.207 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Sb-121: Stable
- Sb-123: Stable
Common uses
- Flame retardants (Sb₂O₃)
- Lead-acid battery hardening
- Microelectronics
Where it matters
- Fire Safety (Flame retardants)
- Lead-acid battery chemistry
Hazards
- Toxic (similar to Arsenic)
- causes poisoning
History
| Discovered | ~3000 BCE |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Ancient Civilizations |
| Name | Symbol Sb from Latin stibium (eyeliner) |