Palladium (symbol Pd, atomic number 46) is a platinum-group metal used in catalytic converters and hydrogen purification. It is classified as a transition metal and sits in group 10, period 5 of the periodic table.
Overview
Palladium is the chemical element with atomic number 46 and the symbol Pd. With a standard atomic weight of 106.42, it is a transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 10 and period 5, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Palladium is a platinum-group metal used in catalytic converters and hydrogen purification.
Atomic structure
An atom of Palladium has 46 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 46 electrons arranged in the configuration [Kr] 4d10. Its standard atomic weight of 106.42 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Palladium was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. It follows Rhodium (Rh) and precedes Silver (Ag) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 46 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Pd |
| Atomic mass | 106.42 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Group | 10 |
| Period | 5 |
| Electron configuration | [Kr] 4d10 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1803 (William Hyde Wollaston) |