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Zirconium Zr
Where is zirconium used--or where does it impact our everyday lives?
Name Zirconium symbol Zr
Atomic number: 40 Atomic mass: 91.22
Solid at room temperature
Where on Periodic Table: Group 3, d-block
Melting point 1855 oC (3371 oF)
Boiling point 4409 oC (7968.2 oF)
Density 6.49 g/mL
Reaction with air (O2): When it is in a fine powder, it ignites when heated and reacts spontaneously with air.
Reaction/solubility in water: NR
Other:
Zirconium is found in S-type stars and has been identified in the sun and meteorites.
It is used in making surgical appliances and photoflash bulbs.
Source: LANL.gov
Researcher: Mia G
Used for metal cutting discs--particularly for stainless steel. Zirconium oxide, ZrO2, and aluminium oxide, Al2O3, provide hard cutting or abrasive surfaces.
