What is Francium?

Francium, the eighty-seventh element on the periodic table, is an extremely rare and highly reactive alkali metal. It's the most elusive naturally occurring element!

Atomic Number: 87

Symbol: Fr

Atomic Mass: [223] u (most stable isotope)

Category: Alkali Metal

State at Room Temperature: Solid (melts at 27°C / 81°F)

Discovered By: Marguerite Perey (1939)

⚛️ Atomic Structure of Francium

Francium has eighty-seven protons, one hundred thirty-six neutrons (in its most stable isotope, Francium-223), and eighty-seven electrons, with one in its outer shell.

💡 Did you know? Francium is so rare that only about 20-30 grams exist in the Earth's crust at any time!

🔬 Francium Properties

Francium is highly reactive, radioactive, and soft. It has a low melting point (27°C / 81°F) and decays quickly via beta emission.

🧪 How Was Francium Discovered?

In 1939, French scientist Marguerite Perey identified Francium while studying actinium decay products, naming it after her homeland, France.

⚡ Uses of Francium

💡 Fun Facts About Francium

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

Francium is radioactive and poses a radiation hazard. It's impractical to handle due to its scarcity and short half-life.

🔬 Explore More Elements