| Formula / Notation | Ba |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 7440-39-3 |
| Molecular Weight | 137.33 |
| Melting Point | 727.0 |
| Boiling Point | 1897.0 |
| Density | 3.51 |
| Solubility | Reacts with water |
| Appearance | Soft, silvery-white metal |
| Also Known As | Ba, barium metal |
| Category | Elements |
What is Barium?
Barium is a soft, silvery alkaline earth metal, atomic number 56. Highly reactive - reacts with water and air. Barium sulfate (BaSO4) is uniquely insoluble and non-toxic - used as a radiopaque contrast agent in X-ray imaging. Most soluble barium compounds are toxic.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: Barium
Other Names / Synonyms: Ba, barium metal
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 727.0 |
| Boiling Point | 1897.0 |
| Density | 3.51 |
| Molecular Weight | 137.33 |
| Solubility | Reacts with water |
| Appearance | Soft, silvery-white metal |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Barium is a soft, silvery alkaline earth metal, atomic number 56. Highly reactive - reacts with water and air. Barium sulfate (BaSO4) is uniquely insoluble and non-toxic - used as a radiopaque contrast agent in X-ray imaging. Most soluble barium compounds are toxic.
Barium sulfate (BaSO4): X-ray contrast agent (barium meal/enema). Green colour in fireworks (BaCl2, Ba(NO3)2). Getter in vacuum tubes. Oil well drilling muds (barite). Glass and ceramics. Barium carbonate as rat poison.
Soluble barium compounds (BaCl2, Ba(NO3)2, BaO): highly toxic - cardiac toxin causing hypokalaemia, muscle paralysis. LD50 BaCl2: ~150 mg/kg. BaSO4 (insoluble): non-toxic, safe for medical use. BaO reacts violently with water. Ba(NO3)2: oxidiser and fire hazard.
The formula or notation for Barium is: Ba