Barium
by Yogi P - October 23, 2023
Barium: A Chemical Element with Endless Possibilities
When considering elements found in the Periodic Table, Barium is often overlooked. But barium the 56th element in the Periodic Table is a distinctively versatile and useful chemical. It has an array of properties that make it an important part of many technologies and modern applications.
This article will discuss the history and discovery, physical properties, applications, and safety precautions related to Barium.
History and Discovery of Barium
Barium was first discovered by two Swedish scientists in the late 1800s. Carl Wilhelm Scheele and Johan Gadolin were studying an ore found in Ytterby, Sweden at the time. Scheele was the first to identify barium as an element in 1774. Gadolin was the first to accurately identify barium’s properties in 1790.
Properties of Barium
- Atomic Number : 56
- Symbol : Ba
- Atomic Mass : 137.327
- Melting Point : 725 °C (1337 K)
- Boiling Point : 1140 °C (1413 K)
- Density : 3.51 g/cm3
- Valence Electrons : 2
Barium is a soft silvery-white metallic element. It is slightly more reactive than strontium and calcium but less reactive than potassium. It is not found naturally in its elemental form due to its high reactivity.
Uses of Barium
Barium is the basis for several technologies and applications thanks to its properties. Some specific uses of barium include:
Summary of the various applications of barium in different forms:
| Used in | Description |
|---|---|
| Medical Diagnostics | Barium sulfate is used in medical imaging, such as X-rays and CT scans, to provide contrast in images of the digestive system, aiding in diagnosis. |
| Insulation | Barium titanate is used to produce heat-resistant insulation, which finds applications in the automotive, construction, and electronics industries. |
| Ceramics | Barium oxide is used in certain types of ceramic glazes, enhancing the aesthetic and functional properties of ceramics, including ceramic tiles. |
| Radiation Shielding | Liquid and solid barium compounds are used in radiation-polluted areas to help reduce the risk of exposure, ensuring safety in nuclear and radioactive environments. |
| Aircraft Components | Barium is used in the construction of some aircraft components, contributing to lightweight airframes and improved aircraft performance. |
Safety Precautions
When working with barium, safety precautions are essential. Barium is a toxic chemical and can cause adverse health effects. Therefore, protective clothing and equipment must be worn when handling barium in any form.
Care should also be taken when storing, disposing of, and/or recycling barium or barium compound waste.
Conclusion
Barium is an incredibly useful and versatile chemical. From medical imaging and aircraft construction to ceramic glazes and insulation materials, barium is an integral part of many common technological applications. In addition, there are always exciting new ways that barium can be used in the future.
With the right precautions and safety measures, barium is an invaluable resource for many individuals and industries.
