Palladium (Pd)

🔹 Basic Information

• Element Name: Palladium
• Discovered By: William Hyde Wollaston
• Year of Discovery: 1803
• Category: Transition Metal
• Group: 10 (Group VIII – Transition Metals)
• State at Room Temperature: Solid (silvery-white metal) ⚙️

Palladium is a rare, precious metal known for its lightweight, corrosion resistance, and excellent catalytic properties.

🔸 Chemical Properties

• Chemical Symbol: Pd
• Atomic Number: 46
• Atomic Mass: ~106.42 u
• Valency: Commonly +2 and +4
• Electronic Configuration: [Kr] 4d¹⁰

Palladium is very stable and resistant to oxidation and corrosion, making it perfect for long-lasting industrial use.

📘 Basic Things to Know

Palladium belongs to the platinum group metals (PGMs) along with platinum, rhodium, and others. It was named after the asteroid Pallas, discovered just a few years before the metal.

🤔 Interesting Facts

• Palladium is used extensively in catalytic converters to reduce harmful car emissions. 🚗🌿
• It can absorb large amounts of hydrogen, making it important in hydrogen storage and fuel cell technology. 💨⚡
• Palladium is often used in jewelry, especially white gold alloys, to improve strength and shine. 💍
• It melts at a high temperature (~1555°C), allowing it to be used in heat-resistant applications. 🔥
• Palladium’s price can be even higher than gold, making it a valuable metal for investors and industries.

🔧 Common Uses

• Catalytic Converters: Helps convert toxic gases from cars into less harmful emissions. 🌍
• Jewelry: Used in white gold and platinum alloys for durability and shine. 💎
• Electronics: Used in electrical contacts and connectors for its resistance to corrosion.
• Hydrogen Storage: Absorbs hydrogen gas for fuel cells and clean energy applications. ♻️
• Dentistry: Used in dental alloys for crowns and bridges. 🦷

📚 Conclusion

Palladium is a shiny, rare metal that plays a big role in clean energy, pollution control, and jewelry. For students, it’s a fantastic example of how precious metals can be both beautiful and useful in modern technology! 🔬💎