Platinum (symbol Pt, atomic number 78) is a precious catalytic metal used in converters, jewellery, and cancer drugs. It is classified as a transition metal and sits in group 10, period 6 of the periodic table.
Overview
Platinum is the chemical element with atomic number 78 and the symbol Pt. With a standard atomic weight of 195.08, it is a transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 10 and period 6, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Platinum is a precious catalytic metal used in converters, jewellery, and cancer drugs.
Atomic structure
An atom of Platinum has 78 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 78 electrons arranged in the configuration [Xe] 4f14 5d9 6s1. Its standard atomic weight of 195.08 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Platinum was discovered in 1735 by Antonio de Ulloa. It follows Iridium (Ir) and precedes Gold (Au) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 78 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Pt |
| Atomic mass | 195.08 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Group | 10 |
| Period | 6 |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f14 5d9 6s1 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1735 (Antonio de Ulloa) |