Aluminium (symbol Al, atomic number 13) is the most abundant metal in the crust, lightweight and endlessly recyclable. It is classified as a post-transition metal and sits in group 13, period 3 of the periodic table.
Overview
Aluminium is the chemical element with atomic number 13 and the symbol Al. With a standard atomic weight of 26.982, it is a post-transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 13 and period 3, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Aluminium is the most abundant metal in the crust, lightweight and endlessly recyclable.
Atomic structure
An atom of Aluminium has 13 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 13 electrons arranged in the configuration [Ne] 3s2 3p1. Its standard atomic weight of 26.982 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Aluminium was discovered in 1825 by Hans Christian Ørsted. It follows Magnesium (Mg) and precedes Silicon (Si) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 13 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Al |
| Atomic mass | 26.982 |
| Category | Post-transition metal |
| Group | 13 |
| Period | 3 |
| Electron configuration | [Ne] 3s2 3p1 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1825 (Hans Christian Ørsted) |