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Fermium

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Identification
Molecular formula
Fm
CAS number
7440-72-4
IUPAC name
fermium
State
State

Fermium is a solid at room temperature, although in practice it is only produced in trace amounts and is highly radioactive.

Melting point (Celsius)
1 527.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 800.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
3 273.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
3 546.00
General information
Molecular weight
257.10g/mol
Molar mass
257.0950g/mol
Density
9.7000g/cm3
Appearence

Fermium is a synthetic and radioactive metal, and its appearance is not well characterized due to its high radioactivity and limited availability. However, it is expected to have a metallic appearance typical of the actinides series of elements.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Fermium

Fermium (Fm), an actinide and synthetic element, exhibits unique properties that influence its solubility in various mediums. Generally, the solubility of actinides can be complex due to their varied oxidation states and interactions with ligands, but some key points to note regarding fermium include:

  • Limited Water Solubility: Fermium compounds, especially the more stable ones, are known to have limited solubility in water. This characteristic is largely due to the high charge density of the fermium ion, which promotes strong ionic interactions in solid states.
  • Complex Formation: In aqueous solutions, fermium can interact with various ligands, forming complexes that may enhance its solubility. However, these complexes are often unstable, complicating the prediction of fermium's behavior in solution.
  • pH Dependency: The solubility of fermium compounds is highly dependent on the pH of the solution. In acidic conditions, for instance, certain fermium ions may become more soluble compared to neutral or alkaline environments.
  • Toxicity Considerations: Given the radioactive nature of fermium, its solubility is not merely a physical property; it also raises significant safety concerns. The potential for solubilized fermium ions to pose biological risks underscores the need for careful handling and study of this element.

In summary, understanding the solubility of fermium is crucial not only for its chemical applications but also for ensuring safety in environments involving this radioactive element. As stated, "The chemistry of fermium is not only fascinating but critical in our pursuit of knowledge about heavy elements." Be mindful that empirical data on fermium's solubility is sparse, given its synthetic generation and limited availability.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Fermium

Fermium, named after the renowned physicist Enrico Fermi, is a fascinating element from the actinide series. It has intrigued scientists since its discovery and continues to be an active area of research. Here are some compelling aspects of this synthetic element:

  • Discovery: Fermium was discovered in 1952 during the first hydrogen bomb explosion, known as "Ivy Mike." It was identified in the debris of the explosion, highlighting the element's origin in high-energy nuclear reactions.
  • Rarity: Being a synthetic element, fermium is extremely rare in nature. Its production requires specialized nuclear reactors or particle accelerators, and it usually exists in minute quantities.
  • Isotopes: Fermium has several isotopes, with fermium-257 being the most stable and the most studied. Its half-life is approximately 100.5 days, making it useful for various experimental purposes.
  • Applications: While fermium has limited commercial applications due to its scarcity, it plays a significant role in scientific research, particularly in the field of nuclear chemistry and physics. Researchers examine its properties to gain insights into the behavior of heavy elements.
  • Research Potential: Fermium's unique properties are of interest for studying the formation of heavier elements in the universe, thus contributing to our understanding of astrophysical processes.

As an element of pivotal historical significance and scientific intrigue, fermium epitomizes the challenges and rewards of modern chemistry. Its study not only sheds light on the dynamics of heavy elements but also inspires further exploration into the realms of nuclear science.

Synonyms
FERMIUM
fermio
7440-72-4
UNII-Q70I3KBF4W
Q70I3KBF4W
FERMIUM [MI]
100Fm
CHEBI:33394
DTXSID60225393
DTXCID60147884
Fm
Q27115628