⚛️ Atomic Structure of Antimony
Antimony has fifty-one protons, seventy-one neutrons (in its most common isotope, Antimony-123), and fifty-one electrons, with five in its outer shell.
- 🟢 Protons: 51
- 🔴 Neutrons: 71 (Most common isotope, Antimony-123)
- 🟡 Electrons: 51
💡 Did you know? Antimony expands when it solidifies, unlike most substances!
🔬 Antimony Properties
Antimony is brittle, lustrous, and a poor conductor of heat and electricity. It melts at 630.6°C (1167.1°F) and resists corrosion.
🧪 How Was Antimony Discovered?
Antimony has been known since ~3000 BCE, used by Egyptians as kohl makeup. Its name comes from Latin “stibium,” linked to its ore, stibnite.
⚡ Uses of Antimony
- 🔩 Alloys: Hardens lead in batteries and bullets.
- 🔥 Flame Retardants: In plastics and textiles.
- 💾 Semiconductors: In infrared detectors.
- 🎨 Pigments: Yellow and white compounds.
💡 Fun Facts About Antimony
- 👁️ Ancient eye makeup from stibnite.
- 📏 Expands on freezing, like water.
- 🌍 Mined mostly in China.
- ⭐ Symbol “Sb” from Latin “stibium”.
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
Antimony is toxic in compounds, causing irritation or poisoning if inhaled or ingested. Handle with gloves, ventilation, and proper disposal.