P

Platinum

IUPAC: Platinum

Pt Elements CAS 7440-06-4
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationPt
CAS Number7440-06-4
Molecular Weight195.08
Melting Point1768.0
Boiling Point3825.0
Density21.45
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceDense, malleable, silvery-white precious metal
Also Known AsPt, platinum metal
CategoryElements

What is Platinum?

Platinum is a dense, malleable, silvery-white precious metal, atomic number 78. Highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation. An excellent catalyst - essential in catalytic converters and chemical industry. Platinum-containing drugs (cisplatin) are important cancer chemotherapy agents.

Formula & Notation

Pt

IUPAC Name: Platinum

Other Names / Synonyms: Pt, platinum metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 78. Atomic mass: 195.08 g/mol. Period 6, Group 10. Melting point: 1768 C. Boiling point: 3825 C. Density: 21.45 g/cm3. Electronegativity: 2.28. Oxidation states: +2, +4. Six stable isotopes. Extremely corrosion resistant.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point1768.0
Boiling Point3825.0
Density21.45
Molecular Weight195.08
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceDense, malleable, silvery-white precious metal

Uses & Applications

Automotive catalytic converters (Pt oxidises CO and hydrocarbons). Chemical industry catalysts (HNO3 production from NH3 - Ostwald process). Jewellery and investment. Cisplatin and carboplatin (anti-cancer drugs). Electrodes. Fuel cell catalysts. Thermocouples.

Safety Information

Platinum metal: low acute toxicity. Platinum compounds: skin sensitiser - platinum salts cause occupational asthma and dermatitis. Cisplatin: cytotoxic drug - causes nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, nausea (used as chemotherapy). Platinum dust: mild respiratory irritant.

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

Key Facts

Term Platinum
Formula Pt
CAS Number 7440-06-4
Molecular Weight 195.08
Category Elements
Synonyms Pt, platinum metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Platinum is a dense, malleable, silvery-white precious metal, atomic number 78. Highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation. An excellent catalyst - essential in catalytic converters and chemical industry. Platinum-containing drugs (cisplatin) are important cancer chemotherapy agents.

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