Tantalum
Tantalum, Ta, is a transition metal element, found in
Group Va of the
periodic table.
- Atomic Number : 73
- Relative Atomic Mass : 180.95
Discovery
Tantalum was first identified by A G Ekeberg in a Finnish ore in 1802AD.
Occurrence
Tantalum is found in Tantalite, Fe(TaO3)2 and also occurs at low levels
in a wide range of other minerals, including
- Monazite,
- Yttrotantalite,
- Tinstone,
- Pitchblende, and
- Wolfram.
Extraction
Preparation
Manufacture
Properties
Tantalum melts at 3000 degC.
Tantalum forms a complex fluoride salt, K2TaF7, as rhombic
needles from alkaline fluoride solutions.
Reactions
Uses
Tantalum is used
- in the filaments in electric lamps,
- in alternating current rectifiers, and
- in association with tungsten carbide in the manufacture of
steel-cutting tools.
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