Antimony

Antimony

Chemical Properties of Antimony

Group	15	Melting point	630.628°C, 1167.13°F, 903.778 K
Period	5	Boiling point	1587°C, 2889°F, 1860 K
Block	p	Density (g cm−3)	6.68
Atomic number	51	Relative atomic mass	¹²¹Sb
State at 20°C	Solid	Key isotopes	⁷Li
Electron configuration	[Kr]4d¹⁰5s²5p³	CAS number	7440-36-0
ChemSpider ID	4510681	ChemSpider is a free chemical structure database.

What is Antimony?

Antimony is a semi-metallic chemical element with an atomic number 51 and symbol Sb in the Periodic Table.
Latin name of Antimony is Stibium. It is generally found in two forms namely metallic form and non-metallic form.
Antimony compounds are used since ancient times as a component in cosmetics.
It is naturally found in Earth’s crust in the ores of valentinite and stibnite.

Pure antimony is used in the manufacturing of certain semiconductors like infrared detectors and diodes.
It is used to harden lead and increase its durability.
Batteries consist of antimony for smooth functioning.
It is also used to make small arms & bullets.
It is a very good flame retardant.

The metallic form appears in a bright silver colour brittle and non-metallic form will appear as the grey powder.
It is a weak conductor of electricity and heat. The special feature of antimony and its alloys is that they expand on cooling.

It is toxic but does not have any harmful effects. But constant exposure to this may cause some diseases like lung diseases, heart problems and stomach ulcers.