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Indium

IUPAC: Indium

In Elements CAS 7440-74-6
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationIn
CAS Number7440-74-6
Molecular Weight114.82
Melting Point156.6
Boiling Point2072.0
Density7.31
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSoft, silvery-white, lustrous metal
Also Known AsIn, indium metal
CategoryElements

What is Indium?

Indium is a soft, silvery-white post-transition metal, atomic number 49. Emits a high-pitched squeal when bent (indium cry). Critical material for thin-film solar cells (CIGS) and ITO electrodes in touchscreens and flat panel displays.

Formula & Notation

In

IUPAC Name: Indium

Other Names / Synonyms: In, indium metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 49. Atomic mass: 114.82 g/mol. Period 5, Group 13. Melting point: 156.6 C. Boiling point: 2072 C. Density: 7.31 g/cm3. Electronegativity: 1.78. Oxidation states: +1, +3. Two stable isotopes: In-113 (4.3%), In-115 (95.7%, very long half-life radioactive).

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point156.6
Boiling Point2072.0
Density7.31
Molecular Weight114.82
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSoft, silvery-white, lustrous metal

Uses & Applications

Indium tin oxide (ITO) transparent electrodes (touchscreens, LCDs, solar cells). CIGS thin-film solar cells (CuInGaSe2). Low-melting point alloys. Semiconductor dopant (InP, InGaAs). Bearings and dental alloys. Nuclear reactor bearings.

Safety Information

Indium metal: low acute toxicity. Indium compounds: moderate toxicity. Indium lung: rare but serious lung disease from occupational inhalation of indium compounds in ITO manufacturing. OSHA PEL: 0.1 mg/m3. Requires respiratory protection in manufacturing.

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

Key Facts

Term Indium
Formula In
CAS Number 7440-74-6
Molecular Weight 114.82
Category Elements
Synonyms In, indium metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Indium is a soft, silvery-white post-transition metal, atomic number 49. Emits a high-pitched squeal when bent (indium cry). Critical material for thin-film solar cells (CIGS) and ITO electrodes in touchscreens and flat panel displays.

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