Copernicium (symbol Cn, atomic number 112) is a synthetic superheavy element named after Nicolaus Copernicus. It is classified as a transition metal and sits in group 12, period 7 of the periodic table.
Overview
Copernicium is the chemical element with atomic number 112 and the symbol Cn. With a standard atomic weight of [285], it is a transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 12 and period 7, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Copernicium is a synthetic superheavy element named after Nicolaus Copernicus.
Atomic structure
An atom of Copernicium has 112 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 112 electrons arranged in the configuration [Rn] 5f14 6d10 7s2. Copernicium has no stable isotope; the value [285] refers to the mass number of its most stable or most commonly produced isotope.
Discovery and place in the table
Copernicium was discovered in 1996 by Gesellschaft für Schwerionenforschung. It follows Roentgenium (Rg) and precedes Nihonium (Nh) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 112 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Cn |
| Atomic mass | [285] |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Group | 12 |
| Period | 7 |
| Electron configuration | [Rn] 5f14 6d10 7s2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1996 (Gesellschaft für Schwerionenforschung) |