| Formula / Notation | Cd |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 7440-43-9 |
| Molecular Weight | 112.41 |
| Melting Point | 321.1 |
| Boiling Point | 767.0 |
| Density | 8.65 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Soft, silvery-white metal with blue tinge |
| Also Known As | Cd, cadmium metal |
| Category | Elements |
What is Cadmium?
Cadmium is a soft, silvery-white transition metal, atomic number 48. Highly toxic heavy metal and carcinogen. Mainly occurs as a by-product of zinc smelting. Historically used in nickel-cadmium batteries and as a corrosion-resistant coating, now restricted due to toxicity.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: Cadmium
Other Names / Synonyms: Cd, cadmium metal
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 321.1 |
| Boiling Point | 767.0 |
| Density | 8.65 |
| Molecular Weight | 112.41 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Soft, silvery-white metal with blue tinge |
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
Cadmium is a soft, silvery-white transition metal, atomic number 48. Highly toxic heavy metal and carcinogen. Mainly occurs as a by-product of zinc smelting. Historically used in nickel-cadmium batteries and as a corrosion-resistant coating, now restricted due to toxicity.
Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable batteries (being phased out). Cadmium pigments (CdS yellow, CdSe red). Cadmium plating for corrosion resistance (restricted). Neutron absorber in nuclear reactors (Cd-113). Stabiliser in PVC (being replaced).
Highly toxic carcinogen (IARC Group 1): causes lung, kidney, and prostate cancer. Itai-itai disease: cadmium poisoning from contaminated rice. Kidney (tubular) damage from chronic exposure. OSHA PEL: 0.005 mg/m3. Cadmium oxide fumes: chemical pneumonitis. Restricted under RoHS directive.
The formula or notation for Cadmium is: Cd