S

Scandium

IUPAC: Scandium

Sc Elements CAS 7440-20-2
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationSc
CAS Number7440-20-2
Molecular Weight44.96
Melting Point1541.0
Boiling Point2836.0
Density2.99
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSilvery-white metal with slightly yellowish tint
Also Known AsSc, scandium metal
CategoryElements

What is Scandium?

Scandium is a silvery-white transition metal, atomic number 21. Rare in nature despite being the 23rd most abundant element. First member of the transition metals (Period 4, Group 3). Used primarily in aluminium-scandium alloys for aerospace.

Formula & Notation

Sc

IUPAC Name: Scandium

Other Names / Synonyms: Sc, scandium metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 21. Atomic mass: 44.956 g/mol. Period 4, Group 3 (transition metal). Melting point: 1541 C. Boiling point: 2836 C. Density: 2.99 g/cm3. Electronegativity: 1.36. Oxidation state: +3. One stable isotope: Sc-45.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point1541.0
Boiling Point2836.0
Density2.99
Molecular Weight44.96
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSilvery-white metal with slightly yellowish tint

Uses & Applications

Aluminium-scandium alloys (aerospace, bicycles, baseball bats - improves strength). Metal halide lamps (stadium lighting). Radioactive Sc-46 used as oil well tracer. Research in nuclear industry.

Safety Information

Scandium metal and compounds: low acute toxicity. Fine powder: combustible. Scandium chloride: irritant. Limited industrial use limits exposure. Handle with standard precautions for metal dusts.

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

Key Facts

Term Scandium
Formula Sc
CAS Number 7440-20-2
Molecular Weight 44.96
Category Elements
Synonyms Sc, scandium metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Scandium is a silvery-white transition metal, atomic number 21. Rare in nature despite being the 23rd most abundant element. First member of the transition metals (Period 4, Group 3). Used primarily in aluminium-scandium alloys for aerospace.

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