Properties of tantalum

Tantalum is a chemical element with the symbol Ta and atomic number 73. It is a transition metal that belongs to Group 5 (VB) of the periodic table, just below niobium.

Here are some key properties of tantalum:

Physical properties of tantalum

1. Atomic number: 73
2. Atomic mass: 180.94788 u
3. Density: 16.6 g/cm³
4. Melting point: 3,017 degrees Celsius (5,463 degrees Fahrenheit)
5. Boiling point: 5,458 degrees Celsius (9,856 degrees Fahrenheit)
6. State of matter: Tantalum is a solid at room temperature.

Chemical properties of tantalum

1. Tantalum has a high resistance to corrosion, making it highly inert to most acids and environments. It forms a protective oxide layer on its surface, similar to niobium.
2. It reacts with a few strong acids, such as hydrofluoric acid and sulfuric acid, but is otherwise resistant to most acids.
3. Tantalum can form compounds with various oxidation states, including +3, +4, and +5.

Mechanical properties

1. Tantalum is a dense, heavy, and hard metal.
2. It is highly ductile and can be easily formed into various shapes.
3. Tantalum has a high melting point, which makes it suitable for applications in high-temperature environments.
4. It has good thermal and electrical conductivity.

Electrical properties of tantalum

1. Tantalum is an excellent conductor of electricity.
2. It is widely used in the electronics industry for capacitors due to its high capacitance per volume.

Other properties

1. Tantalum is relatively rare in the Earth’s crust and is often found in association with niobium in minerals such as tantalite and columbite.
2. It has a paramagnetic behavior, weakly attracted by magnetic fields.
3. Tantalum is biocompatible and has a high resistance to body fluids, making it suitable for medical implants and surgical instruments.

Due to its excellent corrosion resistance, high melting point, and electrical properties, tantalum is used in various industries, including electronics, aerospace, chemical processing, medical, and military applications. It is valued for its reliability, durability, and ability to withstand harsh environments.