Nickel (symbol Ni, atomic number 28) is a corrosion-resistant metal used in stainless steel, coins, and rechargeable batteries. It is classified as a transition metal and sits in group 10, period 4 of the periodic table.
Overview
Nickel is the chemical element with atomic number 28 and the symbol Ni. With a standard atomic weight of 58.693, it is a transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 10 and period 4, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Nickel is a corrosion-resistant metal used in stainless steel, coins, and rechargeable batteries.
Atomic structure
An atom of Nickel has 28 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 28 electrons arranged in the configuration [Ar] 3d8 4s2. Its standard atomic weight of 58.693 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Nickel was discovered in 1751 by Axel Fredrik Cronstedt. It follows Cobalt (Co) and precedes Copper (Cu) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 28 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Ni |
| Atomic mass | 58.693 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Group | 10 |
| Period | 4 |
| Electron configuration | [Ar] 3d8 4s2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1751 (Axel Fredrik Cronstedt) |