Curium (Cm)
Curium (Cm) is element 96, an actinide. Atomic mass 247, configuration [Rn] 5f⁷ 6d¹ 7s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 96 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Cm |
| Standard atomic weight | 247 |
| Category | Actinide |
| Period | 7 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Rn] 5f⁷ 6d¹ 7s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +3 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| First ionization energy | 581 kJ/mol |
| Density | 13.51 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 1346°C |
| Boiling point | ~3127°C |
Common uses
- Alpha source in Mars Rovers (APXS)
Where it matters
- Space Exploration (Alpha particle X-ray Spectrometers)
Hazards
- Highly radioactive
History
| Discovered | 1944 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Seaborg, James, Ghiorso |
| Name | Marie & Pierre Curie |