Scandium (Sc)
Scandium (Sc, element 21) is a transition metal in group 3, period 4. Atomic mass 44.956, electron configuration [Ar] 3d¹ 4s², uses and facts.
About Scandium
Scandium is a transition metal with the symbol Sc and atomic number 21. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 3, period 4 of the periodic table. Scandium was discovered in 1879 by Lars Fredrik Nilson.
Scandium key facts
- Atomic number: 21
- Symbol: Sc
- Atomic mass: 44.956 u
- Category: transition metal
- Group: 3
- Period: 4
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Ar] 3d¹ 4s²
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 1.36
- Melting point: 1814 K (1540.85 °C)
- Boiling point: 3109 K (2835.85 °C)
- Density: 2.985 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: +1, +2, +3
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of scandium is [Ar] 3d¹ 4s². The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells.
Uses of scandium
- Aerospace alloys
- Sports equipment
- Lamps
Did you know?
Scandium is used in high-intensity metal halide lamps that produce a light similar to sunlight.
Other elements in group 3 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of scandium?
The atomic number of scandium is 21, which means every scandium atom has 21 protons.
What is the electron configuration of scandium?
The electron configuration of scandium is [Ar] 3d¹ 4s².
What group and period is scandium in?
Scandium is a transition metal in group 3, period 4.
What state is scandium at room temperature?
Scandium is a solid at room temperature.
What is scandium used for?
Scandium is used for aerospace alloys, sports equipment, lamps.