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Promethium

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Identification
Molecular formula
Pm
CAS number
7440-12-2
IUPAC name
promethium
State
State

At room temperature, promethium exists as a solid metal. However, its radioactive nature contributes to its relative instability when not contained within controlled environments.

Melting point (Celsius)
1 042.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 315.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
3 000.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
3 273.00
General information
Molecular weight
145.00g/mol
Molar mass
145.0000g/mol
Density
7.2600g/cm3
Appearence

Promethium is a rare earth metal that exhibits a bright metallic luster. However, it rapidly oxidizes in air, forming a pink or red oxide. Because of this, promethium samples are rarely seen in their metallic form outside of scientific studies and sealed environments.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Promethium

Promethium (61Pm) is a rare earth element and a member of the lanthanide series. Its solubility characteristics are rather unique and can be summarized as follows:

  • Solubility in Water: Promethium does not readily dissolve in water. The absence of stable aqueous promethium compounds limits its solubility, leading to a more significant presence in solid forms.
  • Solubility in Acids: Promethium compounds may exhibit moderate solubility in strong acids. For instance, promethium(III) chloride can dissolve in hydrochloric acid, forming ions that are soluble in the solution.
  • Solid Forms: As a solid, promethium can form various oxides and salts, which have differing solubility characteristics based on their chemical nature. For example, some promethium oxides tend to have low solubility in aqueous solutions.

In summary, the solubility of promethium is a complex topic influenced by its chemical state and the solvent used. Overall, the general trend suggests limited solubility, particularly in water.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Promethium

Promethium is a fascinating element with unique characteristics and applications. Here are some engaging facts about this rare earth metal:

1. Discovery and Naming

  • Promethium was discovered in 1945 by scientists Jacobus Cornelius van den Berg and Charles D. Coryell.
  • The name "promethium" is derived from the Greek mythological figure Prometheus, who stole fire from the gods and gave it to humanity, symbolizing the metal's potential for energy production.

2. Rarity and Occurrence

  • Promethium is one of the rarest elements on Earth, as it does not occur naturally in significant amounts.
  • It is primarily obtained from the decay of uranium and other actinides, making it a product of nuclear reactions.

3. Isotopes and Radioactivity

  • Promethium has no stable isotopes; the most common is 145Pm, which is notably radioactive.
  • This radioactivity allows for interesting applications, particularly in the field of luminescent materials.

4. Applications

  • Promethium is utilized in luminous paints, which are used for watches and instrument dials.
  • It has also been explored for potential use in batteries and atomic thermal batteries, harnessing its radioactivity to generate heat and electricity.

5. Unique Characteristics

  • Promethium exhibits a glowing appearance due to its radioactive nature, providing it with a distinctive visual characteristic that sets it apart from many other elements.
  • It is an essential component in certain research applications, particularly in fields exploring high-energy physics and thermoelectric devices.

As a member of the lanthanide series, promethium continues to intrigue scientists, pushing the boundaries of material science and energy applications. Its unique properties and potential uses make it a valuable subject of study in contemporary chemistry.

Synonyms
PROMETHIUM
7440-12-2
prometio
promethium atom
ZGV62C09KN
PROMETHIUM [MI]
PROMETHIUM ELEMENT
UNII-ZGV62C09KN
DTXSID4047755
CHEBI:33373
EINECS 231-121-9
DTXCID9027738
14380-75-7 (Pm-147)
231-121-9
Pm
Promethium-III
Promethium, ion(Pm3 )
61Pm
VQMWBBYLQSCNPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Pm3
NS00082604
Q1809