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Antimony

IUPAC: Antimony

Sb Elements CAS 7440-36-0
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationSb
CAS Number7440-36-0
Molecular Weight121.76
Melting Point630.6
Boiling Point1587.0
Density6.68
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceLustrous, silvery, hard, brittle metalloid
Also Known AsSb, stibium, antimony element
CategoryElements

What is Antimony?

Antimony is a lustrous, silvery metalloid, atomic number 51. Known since antiquity (kohl eye makeup was Sb2S3). Brittle and flaky. Used in alloys for hardening lead. Antimony trioxide is a major flame retardant synergist.

Formula & Notation

Sb

IUPAC Name: Antimony

Other Names / Synonyms: Sb, stibium, antimony element

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 51. Atomic mass: 121.76 g/mol. Period 5, Group 15 (metalloid). Melting point: 630.6 C. Boiling point: 1587 C. Density: 6.68 g/cm3. Electronegativity: 2.05. Oxidation states: +3, +5, -3. Two stable isotopes: Sb-121 (57.2%), Sb-123 (42.8%).

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point630.6
Boiling Point1587.0
Density6.68
Molecular Weight121.76
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceLustrous, silvery, hard, brittle metalloid

Uses & Applications

Lead-acid battery grids (Pb-Sb alloy hardener). Flame retardant synergist (Sb2O3 with halogenated compounds). Type metal (Pb-Sb-Sn for printing). Semiconductor (InSb for infrared detectors). Antimony trioxide in PVC. Tartar emetic (historical medicine).

Safety Information

Antimony and compounds: moderate toxicity - irritant to respiratory system and skin. Stibine (SbH3) gas: highly toxic (similar to arsine). Antimony trioxide: possible carcinogen (IARC Group 2B). Chronic exposure causes pneumoconiosis. OSHA PEL: 0.5 mg/m3.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Antimony
Formula Sb
CAS Number 7440-36-0
Molecular Weight 121.76
Category Elements
Synonyms Sb, stibium, antimony element

Frequently Asked Questions

Antimony is a lustrous, silvery metalloid, atomic number 51. Known since antiquity (kohl eye makeup was Sb2S3). Brittle and flaky. Used in alloys for hardening lead. Antimony trioxide is a major flame retardant synergist.

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