C

Cobalt

IUPAC: Cobalt

Co Elements CAS 7440-48-4
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationCo
CAS Number7440-48-4
Molecular Weight58.93
Melting Point1495.0
Boiling Point2927.0
Density8.9
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceHard, lustrous, silver-grey metal with blue tint
Also Known AsCo, cobalt metal
CategoryElements

What is Cobalt?

Cobalt is a hard, lustrous, silver-grey transition metal, atomic number 27. Used since antiquity to produce blue colour in glass and ceramics (cobalt blue). Essential trace element for animals as component of vitamin B12. Important in lithium-ion battery cathodes.

Formula & Notation

Co

IUPAC Name: Cobalt

Other Names / Synonyms: Co, cobalt metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 27. Atomic mass: 58.933 g/mol. Period 4, Group 9. Melting point: 1495 C. Boiling point: 2927 C. Density: 8.90 g/cm3. Electronegativity: 1.88. Oxidation states: +2, +3. Ferromagnetic. One stable isotope: Co-59. Co-60 is important radioactive isotope.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point1495.0
Boiling Point2927.0
Density8.9
Molecular Weight58.93
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceHard, lustrous, silver-grey metal with blue tint

Uses & Applications

Lithium-ion battery cathodes (LiCoO2). Superalloys for jet engines and turbines. Cobalt blue pigment (glass, ceramics, paints). Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin contains cobalt). Hard metal cutting tools (WC-Co). Radioactive Co-60 for radiotherapy and food irradiation.

Safety Information

Cobalt compounds: suspected carcinogen (IARC Group 2B). Inhalation of cobalt dust causes hard metal lung disease. Skin sensitiser - causes cobalt dermatitis. Soluble cobalt salts: toxic if ingested. Co-60 radiation source: severe radiation hazard requiring strict controls.

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

Key Facts

Term Cobalt
Formula Co
CAS Number 7440-48-4
Molecular Weight 58.93
Category Elements
Synonyms Co, cobalt metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Cobalt is a hard, lustrous, silver-grey transition metal, atomic number 27. Used since antiquity to produce blue colour in glass and ceramics (cobalt blue). Essential trace element for animals as component of vitamin B12. Important in lithium-ion battery cathodes.

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