Barium (Ba)
Barium (Ba, element 56) is an alkaline earth metal in group 2, period 6. Atomic mass 137.327, electron configuration [Xe] 6s², uses and facts.
About Barium
Barium is an alkaline earth metal with the symbol Ba and atomic number 56. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 2, period 6 of the periodic table. Barium was discovered in 1808 by Humphry Davy.
Barium key facts
- Atomic number: 56
- Symbol: Ba
- Atomic mass: 137.327 u
- Category: alkaline earth metal
- Group: 2
- Period: 6
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Xe] 6s²
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 0.89
- Melting point: 1000 K (726.85 °C)
- Boiling point: 2118 K (1844.85 °C)
- Density: 3.51 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: +2
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of barium is [Xe] 6s². The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells. Barium has 2 valence electrons.
Uses of barium
- Medical imaging
- Fireworks (green)
- Drilling fluid
Did you know?
Barium sulfate is used as a 'barium meal' for X-ray imaging of the digestive tract. You swallow it!
Other elements in group 2 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of barium?
The atomic number of barium is 56, which means every barium atom has 56 protons.
What is the electron configuration of barium?
The electron configuration of barium is [Xe] 6s².
What group and period is barium in?
Barium is an alkaline earth metal in group 2, period 6.
What state is barium at room temperature?
Barium is a solid at room temperature.
What is barium used for?
Barium is used for medical imaging, fireworks (green), drilling fluid.