Skip to main content

Chromium

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
Cr
CAS number
7440-47-3
IUPAC name
chromium
State
State

Chromium is typically found in a solid state at room temperature. It maintains a stable crystalline structure in the form of body-centered cubic lattice.

Melting point (Celsius)
1 907.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
2 180.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
2 671.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
2 944.00
General information
Molecular weight
52.00g/mol
Molar mass
51.9960g/mol
Density
7.1900g/cm3
Appearence

Chromium is a lustrous, steely-gray metal with a high polish. It is hard and brittle, often presenting a shiny metallic appearance. The metal can be polished to achieve a high mirror finish.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Chromium Compounds

Chromium (Cr), a transition metal, manifests various solubility behaviors depending on its oxidation state and the forming compound. In general, the solubility of chromium compounds can be categorized as follows:

  • Chromium(III) Compounds: Most Cr(III) compounds are quite insoluble in water. For example, chromium(III) oxide (Cr₂O₃) and chromium(III) sulfate (Cr₂(SO₄)₃) exhibit very low solubility, making them precipitating agents in various chemical processes.
  • Chromium(VI) Compounds: In contrast, Cr(VI) compounds such as potassium dichromate (K2Cr₂O₇) are known for their high solubility in water. They can dissociate into highly reactive ions, contributing to their environmental and health concerns.
  • Complexes: Some chromium complexes, particularly those with organic ligands, can greatly enhance solubility. For instance, chromium(III) acetate is considerably more soluble than its inorganic counterparts.

Additionally, the general statement regarding solubility of chromium compounds can be summarized as:

"The solubility of chromium compounds is heavily influenced by the valence state and the presence of ligands."

Understanding the solubility properties of chromium is essential in fields like environmental chemistry and materials science, as it dictates how chromium behaves in various chemical settings.

Interesting facts

Exploring the Fascinating Element: Chromium

Chromium, represented chemically as Cr, is a transition metal and a vital element in our world for various reasons. Here are some intriguing facts that highlight its significance:

  • Historical Significance: Discovered in 1797 by the French chemist Louis-Nicolas Vauquelin, chromium was initially isolated from its mineral, crocoite, which is a lead chromate. Its name derives from the Greek word chroma, meaning color, due to its vibrant compounds.
  • Versatile Oxidation States: Chromium exhibits multiple oxidation states ranging from -2 to +6, with +3 and +6 being the most common. Each state imparts unique chemical properties, making chromium especially versatile in compounds like chromates and dichromates.
  • Industrial Importance: Chromium is best known for its application in the production of stainless steel. It is added to enhance corrosion resistance and improve the strength and hardness of the steel.
  • Environmental Influence: While chromium has many beneficial uses, particularly in manufacturing and metallurgy, its +6 oxidation state is notably toxic and carcinogenic, raising concerns about environmental pollution and health risks.
  • Chromotherapy: Beyond industrial uses, certain shades of chromium compounds are used in art and decoration. They also play a role in 'chromotherapy,' a form of alternative medicine, believed to utilize colors to influence psychological well-being.
  • Biological Role: Interestingly, chromium is an essential trace element in humans, influencing insulin action and glucose metabolism, thus playing a critical role in nutrition.
  • Alloy Applications: Various alloys containing chromium are developed for specific applications, from aerospace technology to automotive parts, showcasing chromium's ability to enhance material properties.

In conclusion, chromium is not just any element; it is a dynamic and multifaceted substance that balances utility with environmental considerations. Whether in art, industry, or biochemistry, its pervasive influence is undeniable.

Synonyms
CHROMIUM
7440-47-3
Chrome
Chrom
cromo
chromium atom
Dinakrome
BioChrome
CCRIS 159
HSDB 910
24Cr
EINECS 231-157-5
CHEBI:28073
0R0008Q3JB
DTXSID3031022
EC 231-157-5
CHROMIUM, METALLIC (IARC)
CHROMIUM, METALLIC [IARC]
CHROMIUM ELEMENT
Chromium Metallicum
ALPASTE RRA 030
ALPASTE RRA 050
DTXCID1011022
CHROMIUM FULLERIDE (CRC20)
231-157-5
chromium, metal (acgih)
Cr
nsc293779
Chromium, elemental
Chromium metal
Chromium, metal
Chromium chips
Chromium powder
chromide(1-)
CHROMIUM ION
Chromium powder, APS <10 micron
Chrome [French]
Chrom [German]
Chromium AA Standard: Cr @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HCl
MFCD00010944
Sulfur-Free Chromium Concentrate: Cr @ approx. 3.5 wt% in Hydrocarbons
19498-56-7
Chromium Standard: Cr @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HCl
Chromium Standard: Cr @ 10000 microg/mL in 5% HCl
Chromium Standard: Cr @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Chromium Standard: Cr @ 10000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
chromium anion
Chromium flakes
UNII-0R0008Q3JB
Chromium pellets
Chromium MOF
Chromium Nanorods
Chromium Standard
chromide(-I)
Chromium Nanopowder
Chromium Nanoprisms
Chromium crystallites
Chromium Metal Chips
Chromium Micro Powder
10A - Metals
Chromium, ion(Cr3+)
CHROMIUM [HSDB]
CHROMIUM [MI]
CHROMIUM [VANDF]
Chromium, ion (Cr1-)
Chromium, ion (Cr3 )
Chromium pieces, irregular
CHROMIUM [WHO-DD]
Epitope ID:114071
Chromium, ion (Cr 3+)
Chromium pellets 3mm x 6mm
Ultra Thin Chromium Nanofoil
Chromium powder, -100 mesh
Chromium powder, -325 mesh
Cr(-)
Chromium Standard: Cr @ 10 microg/mL in 2% HNO3
Chromium, puriss., 98.0%
Chromium granules, -4+7 mesh
Chromium Metal Organic Framework
Chromium Metal-Organic Framework
Chromium Powder, 99.5% Nano
Titanium Metal Organic Framework
CHEBI:33010
Chromium powder, -10+20 mesh
Chromium Standard: Cr @ 1000 microg/g in Hydrocarbon Oil
Chromium Standard: Cr @ 5000 microg/g in Hydrocarbon Oil
DTXSID401315238
Chromium Hollow Cathode Lamp: 1.5" Diameter, 2-pin, Non-Coded
Chromium Hollow Cathode Lamp: 2.0" Diameter, 4-pin, Cableless
Chromium Hollow Cathode Lamp: 2.0" Diameter, 9-pin, Non-Coded
Chromium nanopowder (60-80 nm)
Chromium powder, -100+325 mesh
Silica (SiO2) Photoelectric Crystal
Sulfur-Free Chromium Standard: Cr @ 1000 microg/g in Hydrocarbon Oil
Sulfur-Free Chromium Standard: Cr @ 5000 microg/g in Hydrocarbon Oil
Chromium flake, electrolytic <1 inch
AKOS015833211
DB11136
Chromium pieces, 1-25mm (0.04-1in)
Chromium, powder, 99.5%, -100 mesh
Q725
Chromium pieces, 3-8mm (0.1-0.31in)
Chromium, coating quality, 99.95%, grit
Chromium cubes, 12.5mm (0.492in) square
Chromium, chips, thickness ~2 mm, 99.5%
NS00099583
Chromium chunks, 2-15mm (0.08-0.59in)
Chromium pieces, 3-12mm (0.12-0.47in)
C06268
Chromium - Cr @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HCl
Chromium, chips, 99.995% trace metals basis
Chromium - Cr @ 1000 microg/mL in 5% HNO3
Chromium pieces, 2-3mm (0.08-0.12in) thick
Chromium powder, -100 mesh, 99% (metals basis)
Chromium powder, -325 mesh, 99% (metals basis)
Chromium, bar, 100mm x 2mm x 2mm, 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 10mm, diameter 2.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 10mm, diameter 5.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 25mm, diameter 2.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 25mm, diameter 5.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 50mm, diameter 2.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 50mm, diameter 5.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium - Cr @ 1000 microg/g in Hydrocarbon Oil
Chromium - Cr @ 5000 microg/g in Hydrocarbon Oil
Chromium cubes, typically 6.35mm (0.25in) square
Chromium, rod, 100mm, diameter 2.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 100mm, diameter 5.0mm, 99.7+%
Chromium crystallite pieces, 2-15mm (0.08-0.59in)
Q27115184
Chromium, powder, >=99% trace metals basis, -325 mesh
Chromium, foil, 100x100mm, thickness 3.0mm, hard, 99.95%
Chromium, foil, 25x25mm, thickness 2.0mm, hard, 99.7+%
Chromium, foil, 50x50mm, thickness 2.0mm, hard, 99.7+%
Chromium, foil, 50x50mm, thickness 3.0mm, hard, 99.95%
Chromium pieces, electrolytic, 6mm & down, 99.997% (metals basis)
Chromium, rod, 0.5 mm diameter, length 50 mm, purity 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 1.0 mm diameter, length 50 mm, purity 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 8.0 mm diameter, length 100 mm, purity 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, 8.0 mm diameter, length 50 mm, purity 99.7+%
Chromium, rod, length 25 mm, 0.5 mm diameter, purity 99.7+%
Chromium single crystal, 8-10mm (0.3-0.4in) dia, random orientation
Chromium, foil, thickness 0.5 mm, size 100 x 100 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 0.5 mm, size 12.5 x 12.5 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 0.5 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 0.5 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.0 mm, size 100 x 100 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.0 mm, size 12.5 x 12.5 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.0 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.0 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.0 mm, size 75 x 75 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.5 mm, size 100 x 100 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.5 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 1.5 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 2.0 mm, size 100 x 100 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 2.0 mm, size 25 x 25 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, foil, thickness 2.0 mm, size 50 x 50 mm, purity 99.99%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 10 g, purity 99.99%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 100 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 100 g, purity 99.99%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 20 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 20 g, purity 99.99%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 200 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 200 g, purity 99.99%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 50 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, lump, 10 mm max. lump size, weight 50 g, purity 99.99%
Chromium, lump, 25 mm max. lump size, weight 100 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, lump, 25 mm max. lump size, weight 1000 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, lump, 25 mm max. lump size, weight 200 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, lump, 25 mm max. lump size, weight 50 g, purity 99.95%
Chromium, powder, mean particle size <10 micron, weight 20 g, purity 99%
Chromium, powder, mean particle size <10 micron, weight 50 g, purity 99%
Chromium single crystal, 8-10mm (0.3-0.4in) dia, (100) orientation, +/-2 degrees
Chromium single crystal, 8-10mm (0.3-0.4in) dia, (110) orientation, +/-2 degrees
Chromium single crystal, 8-10mm (0.3-0.4in) dia, (111) orientation, +/-2 degrees
Chromium sputtering target, 50.8mm (2.0in) dia x 3.18mm (0.125in) thick
Chromium sputtering target, 76.2mm (3.0in) dia x 6.35mm (0.250in) thick
Chromium, powder, <10 mean particle size (micron), weight 100 g, purity 99%
Chromium, powder, <10 mean particle size (micron), weight 200 g, purity 99%
Chromium, powder, 200 max. part. size (micron), weight 200 g, purity 99.0+%
Chromium, powder, 200 max. part. size (micron), weight 2000 g, purity 99.0+%
Chromium, powder, 200 max. part. size (micron), weight 50 g, purity 99.0+%
Chromium, powder, 38 max. part. size (micron), weight 100 g, purity 99.0+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 200 micron, weight 100 g, purity 99.+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 200 micron, weight 1000 g, purity 99.+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 200 micron, weight 500 g, purity 99.+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 38 micron, weight 1000 g, purity 99.+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 38 micron, weight 200 g, purity 99.+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 38 micron, weight 50 g, purity 99.+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 38 micron, weight 500 g, purity 99.+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 45 micron, weight 100 g, min. particle size 38 micron
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 45 micron, weight 200 g, min. particle size 38 micron
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 45 micron, weight 50 g, min. particle size 38 micron
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 45 micron, weight 500 g, min. particle size 38 micron
Chromium single crystal disc, 10mm (0.39in) dia, 1-3mm (0.04-0.1in) thick, (100) orientation, +/-0.5 degrees
Chromium single crystal disc, 10mm (0.39in) dia, 1-3mm (0.04-0.1in) thick, (110) orientation, +/-0.5 degrees
Chromium single crystal disc, 10mm (0.39in) dia, 1-3mm (0.04-0.1in) thick, (111) orientation, +/-0.5 degrees
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 10mm, thinness 0.025mum, specific density 18.21mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 10mm, thinness 0.05mum, specific density 37.27mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 10mm, thinness 0.25mum, specific density 178.7mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 10mm, thinness 0.5mum, specific density 355mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 10mm, thinness 1.0mum, specific density 719mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 25mm, thinness 0.05mum, specific density 37.27mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 25mm, thinness 0.25mum, specific density 178.7mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 25mm, thinness 0.5mum, specific density 355mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, microfoil, disks, 25mm, thinness 1.0mum, specific density 719mug/cm2, permanent mylar 3.5mum support, 99.99+%
Chromium, powder, max. particle size 45 micron, weight 1000 g, min. particle size 38 micron
Chromium, sputtering target, diam. x thickness 3.00 in. x 0.125 in., 99.95% trace metals basis