Indium (In)
Indium (In, element 49) is a post-transition metal in group 13, period 5. Atomic mass 114.818, electron configuration [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p¹, uses and facts.
About Indium
Indium is a post-transition metal with the symbol In and atomic number 49. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 13, period 5 of the periodic table. Indium was discovered in 1863 by Ferdinand Reich.
Indium key facts
- Atomic number: 49
- Symbol: In
- Atomic mass: 114.818 u
- Category: post-transition metal
- Group: 13
- Period: 5
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p¹
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 1.78
- Melting point: 429.75 K (156.6 °C)
- Boiling point: 2345 K (2071.85 °C)
- Density: 7.31 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: +1, +2, +3
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of indium is [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p¹. The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells. Indium has 3 valence electrons.
Uses of indium
- LCD screens
- Touchscreens
- Solar cells
Did you know?
When bent, indium makes a distinctive 'crying' sound due to crystal twinning.
Other elements in group 13 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of indium?
The atomic number of indium is 49, which means every indium atom has 49 protons.
What is the electron configuration of indium?
The electron configuration of indium is [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p¹.
What group and period is indium in?
Indium is a post-transition metal in group 13, period 5.
What state is indium at room temperature?
Indium is a solid at room temperature.
What is indium used for?
Indium is used for LCD screens, touchscreens, solar cells.