Atomic number 28
Nickel
Transition metal
In the real world
Quick facts
- Atomic mass
- 58.693
- Group
- 10
- Period
- 4
- State (STP)
- solid
- Electronegativity
- 1.91
- Common ox. states
- +2
Properties
Electron configuration
[Ar] 3d⁸ 4s²
- Ionization energy
- 737.1 kJ/mol
- Electron affinity
- 112.0 kJ/mol
- Melting point
- 1728.00 K (1454.8 °C)
- Boiling point
- 3186.00 K (2912.8 °C)
How dangerous is it?
2/5 · Caution
A common coin and alloy metal that is low hazard as a solid, though it is a frequent cause of skin allergies. Its dust and compounds are the longer-term concern.
- ToxicBuilds up over time
Breathing nickel dust or certain nickel compounds over time is studied as a cancer risk for the airways. (the dust and compounds, not the solid metal)
The dust and compounds are controlled with ventilation; the solid metal is handled normally.
How it bonds
Nickel almost always shows the +2 state - Ni²⁺ in water is bright green. Used to plate steel for corrosion resistance and as a hydrogenation catalyst (Ni catalyses H₂ addition to vegetable oils).
