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Astatine

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Identification
Molecular formula
2
CAS number
7440-68-8
IUPAC name
astatane
State
State

Astatine is a solid under normal conditions. However, due to its extreme radioactivity and rarity, it quickly decays and little can be stored at one time.

Melting point (Celsius)
302.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
575.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
337.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
610.15
General information
Molecular weight
210.00g/mol
Molar mass
210.0000g/mol
Density
6.3500g/cm3
Appearence

Astatine is a radioactive element and little is known about its appearance. It is thought to be metallic and may either be a black or metallic-looking solid at room temperature.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Astatane

Astatane (chemical formula HAt), a fascinating member of the halogen group, exhibits unique solubility characteristics that are intriguing for chemists. While research on its solubility is limited due to its rarity and radioactivity, some general insights can be drawn:

  • Solubility in Water: Astatane is expected to have low solubility in water, primarily because of its heavy atomic mass and the nature of its bonds.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: It may exhibit higher solubility in nonpolar organic solvents than in polar solvents, similar to other heavier halogens.
  • Reaction with Other Compounds: Astatane's solubility can greatly change when it interacts with other chemical compounds, forming new products that may be more soluble.

In the words of chemists, "The solubility of elements can often be a mystery, particularly for those that are less studied." Thus, understanding the solubility of astatane not only requires experimental evidence but also an appreciation of its unique chemical behavior. Further studies are essential to fully grasp the implications of its solubility in various environments.

Interesting facts

Astane: A Fascinating Element

Astatane, denoted as At in the periodic table, is a unique element with intriguing properties that set it apart from many other halogens. Here are some compelling facts about this rare radioactive element:

  • Scarcity in Nature: Astatane is one of the rarest naturally occurring elements on Earth, with only tiny quantities found in trace amounts within uranium and thorium ores. Its scarcity makes it a highly valuable subject of study in nuclear chemistry.
  • Radioactivity: All isotopes of astatane are radioactive, with the most stable isotope, At-210, having a half-life of just over 8 hours. This property makes it a valuable isotopic marker and a point of interest in radiopharmaceutical research.
  • Halogen Characteristics: As a member of the halogen group, astatane shares some chemical properties with its better-known relatives, such as iodine. However, due to its radioactivity and scarcity, astatane's chemical behavior is less understood and is mainly investigated in laboratory settings.
  • Potential Applications: Its radioactive nature opens up potential applications in targeted alpha-particle therapy for cancer treatment. Researchers are keenly exploring its use in radiopharmaceuticals that can specifically target and destroy cancer cells.
  • Discovery: Astatane was first synthesized in 1940 by a team of chemists led by Emilio Segrè and Glenn T. Seaborg. The discovery contributed to the understanding of isotopes and their properties in the field of nuclear chemistry.

In conclusion, while astatane may be overshadowed by more prevalent elements, its remarkable characteristics—scarcity, radioactivity, and potential applications in medicine—make it a compelling topic for chemists and researchers alike. As the exploration of this element continues, it may yet unveil further secrets waiting to be discovered.

Synonyms
astatane
hydrogen astatide
astatidohydrogen
astatan
[HAt]
13464-71-6
CHEBI:30418
DTXSID10274755
Q2188828