The element with atomic number 47 is Silver.
Understanding Silver: The Element of Atomic Number 47
Silver is a fascinating and highly valued chemical element that holds the atomic number 47 in the periodic table. Its chemical symbol is Ag, derived from the Latin word argentum. As a distinguished transition metal, Silver exhibits a unique combination of properties that make it indispensable across various industries and applications.
Key Characteristics of Silver
Silver's atomic structure, with 47 protons in its nucleus, dictates its chemical behavior and physical attributes. It is widely recognized for its exceptional characteristics:
- Classification: Silver is classified as a transition metal. These metals are known for their ability to form compounds with various oxidation states, often displaying vibrant colors.
- Physical State: At standard room temperature and pressure, Silver exists as a solid.
- Luster and Color: It possesses a brilliant metallic luster and is known for its distinctive white color.
- Conductivity: Among all metals, Silver boasts the highest electrical and thermal conductivity, making it critical for electronic components.
- Malleability and Ductility: It is highly malleable (can be hammered into thin sheets) and ductile (can be drawn into thin wires), second only to gold in both aspects.
- Reactivity: Silver is relatively unreactive but can tarnish when exposed to hydrogen sulfide in the air, forming a black layer of silver sulfide.
Atomic Structure and Periodic Table Position
The atomic number, which is 47 for Silver, represents the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom. This number uniquely identifies an element. Silver is located in Group 11, Period 5 of the periodic table, alongside copper (Cu) and gold (Au), which also share similar characteristics as coinage metals.
Diverse Applications of Silver
Due to its remarkable properties, Silver finds extensive use in numerous sectors:
- Jewelry and Ornaments: Its beautiful luster and workability make it a popular choice for jewelry, silverware, and decorative items.
- Electronics: Given its superior electrical conductivity, Silver is crucial in electrical contacts, conductors, and printed circuit boards, especially where high performance is essential.
- Photography: Historically, silver halides were fundamental to traditional photographic films and papers due to their light-sensitive properties.
- Medicine and Healthcare: Silver's antimicrobial properties have led to its use in medical dressings, antibacterial coatings, and some medical devices.
- Coinage and Investments: Silver has been used as a medium of exchange and a store of value for millennia, and it continues to be a popular investment in the form of coins and bars.
- Catalysis: It acts as a catalyst in various chemical reactions, such as the production of ethylene oxide.
Essential Facts About Silver (Ag)
Here's a quick overview of key data for Silver:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Element Name | Silver |
| Chemical Symbol | Ag |
| Atomic Number | 47 |
| Element Category | Transition Metal |
| State at 20°C | Solid |
| Atomic Weight | 107.8682 u |
| Density | 10.49 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 961.78 °C (1763.2 °F) |
| Boiling Point | 2162 °C (3924 °F) |
| Electron Config. | [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s¹ |
For more detailed information on Silver, you can explore resources like Wikipedia's page on Silver or dedicated chemistry databases.
