Niobium (Nb)
Niobium (Nb, element 41) is a transition metal in group 5, period 5. Atomic mass 92.906, electron configuration [Kr] 4d⁴ 5s¹, uses and facts.
About Niobium
Niobium is a transition metal with the symbol Nb and atomic number 41. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 5, period 5 of the periodic table. Niobium was discovered in 1801 by Charles Hatchett.
Niobium key facts
- Atomic number: 41
- Symbol: Nb
- Atomic mass: 92.906 u
- Category: transition metal
- Group: 5
- Period: 5
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Kr] 4d⁴ 5s¹
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 1.6
- Melting point: 2750 K (2476.85 °C)
- Boiling point: 5017 K (4743.85 °C)
- Density: 8.57 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: −3, −1, 0, +1, +2, +3, +4, +5
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of niobium is [Kr] 4d⁴ 5s¹. The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells.
Uses of niobium
- Steel alloys
- Superconductors
- Jewelry
Did you know?
Niobium becomes superconducting at -264°C and is used in superconducting magnets for MRI machines.
Other elements in group 5 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of niobium?
The atomic number of niobium is 41, which means every niobium atom has 41 protons.
What is the electron configuration of niobium?
The electron configuration of niobium is [Kr] 4d⁴ 5s¹.
What group and period is niobium in?
Niobium is a transition metal in group 5, period 5.
What state is niobium at room temperature?
Niobium is a solid at room temperature.
What is niobium used for?
Niobium is used for steel alloys, superconductors, jewelry.