Tantalum (Ta)
Tantalum (Ta) is element 73, a transition metal. Atomic mass 180.94788, configuration [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d³ 6s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 73 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Ta |
| Standard atomic weight | 180.94788(2) |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| Group | 5 |
| Period | 6 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f¹⁴ 5d³ 6s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 (Variable) |
| Common oxidation states | +5 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.5 |
| First ionization energy | 761 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 31.07 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 145 pm |
| Density | 16.4 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 3007°C |
| Boiling point | 5458°C |
| Specific heat | 0.14 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Ta-180m: Stable (metastable isomer, 0.012%)
- Ta-181: Stable (99.988%)
Common uses
- Capacitors in smartphones/laptops
- Surgical implants (inert)
Where it matters
- Electronics Supply Chain ("Conflict mineral")
Hazards
- Low toxicity
- biocompatible
History
| Discovered | 1802 |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Anders Gustaf Ekeberg |
| Name | From Tantalus (Greek mythology) |