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Scandium 21

 

Where is scandium used--or where does it impact our everyday lives?

 

Used in alloys to make expensive bicycle frames

 

 

Scandium   Symbol: Sc

Atomic number: 21     Atomic Mass: 44.96

Group 3 Period 4  Transition metal

Melting point: 1541 oC (2805.8 oF)

Boiling point: 2836 oC (5136.8 oF)

Reaction with air (oxygen): 4Sc + 3O2 --> 2Sc2O3

Reaction with water: 2Sc + 6H2O --> 2Sc(OH)3 + 3H2

Electron configuration: 2,8,8,3

Source: LANL.gov

Researcher: Alfie P

Scandium is present in the mineral thortveitite (ScY)2Si2O7 from Madagascar  viewed during a Chemistry One field trip to the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC, USA

WIS Photographer

Some racing bikes have scandium alloy frames.  Here Athletic Director and Math teacher, Mr. O', on his bike in the Hall of Peace

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