T

Tin

IUPAC: Tin

Sn Elements CAS 7440-31-5
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationSn
CAS Number7440-31-5
Molecular Weight118.71
Melting Point231.9
Boiling Point2602.0
Density7.27
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSilvery, malleable, slightly bluish-white metal
Also Known AsSn, stannum, tin metal
CategoryElements

What is Tin?

Tin is a silvery, malleable post-transition metal, atomic number 50. Has two allotropes: grey tin (alpha, brittle, below 13.2 C) and white tin (beta, normal form). Used since antiquity in bronze (Cu-Sn alloy). Tin cans are steel coated with tin.

Formula & Notation

Sn

IUPAC Name: Tin

Other Names / Synonyms: Sn, stannum, tin metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 50. Atomic mass: 118.71 g/mol. Period 5, Group 14. Melting point: 231.9 C. Boiling point: 2602 C. Density: 7.27 g/cm3 (white). Electronegativity: 1.96. Oxidation states: +2, +4. Ten stable isotopes (most of any element). Tin pest: alpha allotrope at low T.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point231.9
Boiling Point2602.0
Density7.27
Molecular Weight118.71
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceSilvery, malleable, slightly bluish-white metal

Uses & Applications

Tin plating on steel (tin cans - food packaging). Solder (Sn-Pb or Sn-Ag-Cu lead-free). Bronze alloys (Cu-Sn). Organ pipes. Pewter alloy. Organotin compounds as PVC stabilisers and biocides. Tin(IV) oxide in glass-ceramics.

Safety Information

Tin metal: low acute toxicity. Organic tin compounds (tributyltin, triphenyltin): highly toxic endocrine disruptors - banned in antifouling paints. Inorganic tin compounds: moderately toxic. Tin oxide dust: mild respiratory irritant. Tin pest failure in extreme cold.

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

Key Facts

Term Tin
Formula Sn
CAS Number 7440-31-5
Molecular Weight 118.71
Category Elements
Synonyms Sn, stannum, tin metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Tin is a silvery, malleable post-transition metal, atomic number 50. Has two allotropes: grey tin (alpha, brittle, below 13.2 C) and white tin (beta, normal form). Used since antiquity in bronze (Cu-Sn alloy). Tin cans are steel coated with tin.

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