Platinum (Pt)
Platinum (Pt) is element 78, a transition metal. Atomic mass 195.084, configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d⁹ 6s¹. Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 78 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Pt |
| Standard atomic weight | 195.084(9) |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| Group | 10 |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d⁹ 6s¹ |
| Valence electrons | 1 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +2, +4 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 2.2 |
| First ionization energy | 870 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 205.3 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 135 pm |
| Density | 21.5 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 1768.8°C |
| Boiling point | 3825°C |
| Specific heat | 0.133 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Pt-190: Radioactive
- Pt-192: Stable
- Pt-194: Stable
- Pt-195: Stable
- Pt-196: Stable
- Pt-198: Stable
Common uses
- Catalytic converters
- Jewelry
- Pacemaker electrodes
- Cisplatin (cancer drug)
Where it matters
- Green Technology (Hydrogen Fuel Cells)
- Medicine (Chemotherapy)
Hazards
- Metallic Pt is inert
- salts can cause asthma
History
| Discovered | 1735 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Antonio de Ulloa |
| Name | From Spanish platina (little silver) |