Zinc (Zn)
Zinc (Zn) is element 30, a transition metal. Atomic mass 65.38, configuration [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 30 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Zn |
| Standard atomic weight | 65.38(2) |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| Group | 12 |
| Period | 4 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s² |
| Valence electrons | 2 |
| Common oxidation states | +2 |
| Common ions | Zn²⁺ |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 1.65 |
| First ionization energy | 906 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 142 pm |
| Density | 7.134 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 419.53°C |
| Boiling point | 907°C |
| Specific heat | 0.388 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- Zn-64: Stable
- Zn-66: Stable
- Zn-67: Stable
- Zn-68: Stable
- Zn-70: Stable
Common uses
- Galvanizing steel
- Die-casting
- Brass alloy
Where it matters
- Corrosion protection (Sacrificial anode)
- Biochemistry (Enzyme cofactor)
Hazards
- Metal fume fever (from welding)
History
| Discovered | ~1000 CE (India); 1746 (Europe isolation) |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Indian metallurgists; Andreas Sigismund Marggraf |
| Name | Paracelsus (from German Zinke) |