Curium (symbol Cm, atomic number 96) is a synthetic actinide used as a power source in space probes. It is classified as a actinide and sits in the actinide series (f-block), period 7 of the periodic table.
Overview
Curium is the chemical element with atomic number 96 and the symbol Cm. With a standard atomic weight of [247], it is a actinide. In the periodic table it occupies the actinide series (f-block) and period 7, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Curium is a synthetic actinide used as a power source in space probes.
Atomic structure
An atom of Curium has 96 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 96 electrons arranged in the configuration [Rn] 5f7 6d1 7s2. Curium has no stable isotope; the value [247] refers to the mass number of its most stable or most commonly produced isotope.
Discovery and place in the table
Curium was discovered in 1944 by Glenn T. Seaborg et al.. It follows Americium (Am) and precedes Berkelium (Bk) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 96 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Cm |
| Atomic mass | [247] |
| Category | Actinide |
| Group | — |
| Period | 7 |
| Electron configuration | [Rn] 5f7 6d1 7s2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1944 (Glenn T. Seaborg et al.) |