Tantalum (symbol Ta, atomic number 73) is a corrosion-proof metal used in compact capacitors and surgical implants. It is classified as a transition metal and sits in group 5, period 6 of the periodic table.
Overview
Tantalum is the chemical element with atomic number 73 and the symbol Ta. With a standard atomic weight of 180.95, it is a transition metal. In the periodic table it occupies group 5 and period 6, and under standard conditions it is normally a solid. Tantalum is a corrosion-proof metal used in compact capacitors and surgical implants.
Atomic structure
An atom of Tantalum has 73 protons in its nucleus and, when neutral, 73 electrons arranged in the configuration [Xe] 4f14 5d3 6s2. Its standard atomic weight of 180.95 reflects the natural mix of its stable isotopes.
Discovery and place in the table
Tantalum was discovered in 1802 by Anders Gustaf Ekeberg. It follows Hafnium (Hf) and precedes Tungsten (W) in order of atomic number.
| Atomic number | 73 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Ta |
| Atomic mass | 180.95 |
| Category | Transition metal |
| Group | 5 |
| Period | 6 |
| Electron configuration | [Xe] 4f14 5d3 6s2 |
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Discovered | 1802 (Anders Gustaf Ekeberg) |